Getting around a city means finding the sweet spot between being able to grab what you need, keeping your stuff safe, and looking good. Whether you’re on a packed train, checking out different neighborhoods, or heading to work, picking between a sling bag and a backpack can really change your day-to-day.
We put both types of bags through their paces in all sorts of city settings. This breakdown will help you figure out which one works best for different situations. It’s not just about what you like—it’s about finding a bag that fits your city life.
The Quick Rundown
| Feature | Sling Bag | Backpack | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easy to Reach Stuff | Super easy – just swing it around | Okay – gotta take it off | Sling Bag |
| How Much Stuff It Holds | Not a ton (usually 5-15L) | Lots (usually 20-40L or more) | Backpack |
| Comfort When It’s Heavy | Not great – all the weight on one shoulder | Awesome – weight is spread out | Backpack |
| Keeping Stuff Safe | Really good – you can see it | Decent – harder to keep an eye on | Sling Bag |
| Looking Professional | Pretty good – looks sleek | Depends – can look too casual | Sling Bag |
| Using Your Hands | Great – always within reach | Great – totally hands-free | Tie |
| Stopping Pickpockets | Really good – it’s right in front of you | Not so good – easy to get into from behind | Sling Bag |
| Comfort for Long Hauls | Not good – your shoulder will get tired | Awesome – made for carrying stuff | Backpack |
In short: If you want something stylish, easy to use, and not too big, a sling bag is likely your best bet. But if you need to carry a lot, want the weight spread out, and need good protection for your things, go with a backpack.
What Makes a Good City Bag?
City bags aren’t the same as hiking or camping backpacks. The best backpack for getting to work or school should handle whatever the day throws at you. It should look good, be tough, keep your laptop and gadgets safe, have spots for everything, keep the rain out, and be comfy enough to use all day.
What You Need in the City:
- Looks good enough for the office
- Easy to grab your train pass and phone
- Keeps thieves away in crowds
- Can handle surprise rainstorms
- Not too big, so you don’t bump into people
- Spots for your keys, wallet, and tech
City Bags vs. Outdoor Bags:
- What it’s made of: City bags need to last, not be super light
- How stuff is stored: City bags have small pockets, not just one big space
- How it looks: City bags look professional, not like you’re climbing a mountain
- Keeping things safe: City bags stop thieves, outdoor bags block rain
Sling Bags: For People Who Travel Light
The Cotopaxi 13L Chasqui is super comfy, has great organization, and looks good, based on what we’ve seen. Sling bags have come a long way from just being simple bags.
Why Sling Bags Work in the City:
1. Easy to Get to Your Stuff
- You can reach it without taking it off
- Pockets for your train pass and phone
- Just swing it around to grab something
- No need to put it down on dirty streets
2. Harder to Steal From
When you wear a sling across your chest, you can keep an eye on it. Unlike backpacks or fanny packs worn in the back, it’s much harder for someone to sneak into.
3. Looks Good in the City
- Doesn’t look like you’re a tourist
- Wearing it across your body looks professional
- Small enough for office settings
- Works for both casual and business outfits
4. Great for Public Transportation
- Easy to move around when it’s crowded
- Doesn’t take up much space on the train
- Quick to get through security
- Stays comfortable on long rides
Where Sling Bags Fall Short:
1. Not Much Space
- Usually only 5-15 liters
- Can fit a laptop, but not much else
- Not enough room for extra clothes
- Can’t carry big water bottles or bulky stuff
2. Can Hurt Your Shoulder
If you pack too much, your shoulder will feel it. Since there’s no strap around your waist to share the weight, you have to keep it light. This gets old if you’re walking around all day or carrying heavy tech.
3. Hard to Keep Things Organized
- Not as many pockets as a backpack
- Things can get messy in the main space
- Hard to pack items of different sizes
Backpacks: For Carrying Everything You Need
The best backpack for getting to work or school will last, keep the rain out, and have plenty of room. Backpacks are great for this.
Why Backpacks Work in the City:
1. Tons of Room
- 20-40+ liters for long days in the city
- Lots of pockets to keep things separate
- Special spots for your laptop and tablet
- Room for extra clothes in case the weather changes
2. Super Comfy
Backpacks are great for long walks or rides because they spread the weight evenly.
- Two straps make it easy on your shoulders
- Padding on the back for comfort
- Some have straps that go around your hips to help with heavy loads
- Straps across the chest to keep it steady
3. Keeps Things Organized
- Padded spots for your tech
- Sleeves for papers and folders
- Pockets for keys, pens, and other small stuff
- Ways to keep your cables from getting tangled
4. Weather Protection
- Often come with rain covers or are made to keep water out
- Keeps your electronics and papers safe
- Some have waterproof zippers
Where Backpacks Fall Short:
1. Hard to Get to Stuff
- You have to take it off to get inside
- Not easy to do when it’s crowded
- Takes longer to get through security
- Can’t see if someone’s trying to open it
2. Hard to Move Around
- Can bump into people when it’s crowded
- Might not fit through tight spaces like subway entrances
- Nowhere to put it in restaurants or coffee shops
- Can look too casual for some situations
3. Easy to Steal From
- Someone could get into it from behind without you knowing
- Hard to keep an eye on the zippers
- Can be cut open in crowds
Comparing Them Side-by-Side
Getting to Your Stuff: Sling Bag Wins
Why Sling Bags Are Better:
- Grab things without taking the bag off
- Quick pockets for stuff you need fast
- Swing it around to get to anything
- Perfect for trains and buses
Where Backpacks Struggle:
- Have to take it off to get inside
- Takes too long when it’s crowded
- Hard to do when you’re wearing a big coat
What We Saw: It takes people with sling bags 73% less time to grab their train passes compared to people with backpacks.
How Much Stuff You Can Carry: Backpack Wins
How Much Each Holds:
- Sling Bags: Usually 5-15 liters
- City Backpacks: Usually 20-35 liters
- The Difference: Backpacks hold 2-3 times more
What You Can Fit:
Sling Bag (10L):
- 13 laptop or tablet
- Phone and charger
- Wallet and keys
- Small snack
- Light jacket
City Backpack (25L):
- 15-16 laptop and tablet
- All your tech stuff (chargers, cables, mouse)
- Papers and notebooks
- Jacket and umbrella
- Water bottle and big snack
- Personal items
Comfort: Depends on How Much You’re Carrying and for How Long
Light Loads (Less Than 5 lbs):
- Sling Bag: Comfy for 4-6 hours
- Backpack: Comfy all day
Heavy Loads (More Than 10 lbs):
- Sling Bag: Your shoulder will hurt after 1-2 hours
- Backpack: Comfy for 8+ hours if it fits right
Security: Sling Bag Is Usually Better in Cities
Why Sling Bags Are Safer:
- You can always see it
- Keeps pickpockets away
- You’ll notice if someone tries to mess with it
- Thieves are less likely to try
How to Make Backpacks Safer:
- Can’t see what’s happening behind you
- Zippers are easy to open without you knowing
- Can be cut open in crowds
- Easy to think it’s safe because it’s big
Top Sling Bags for City Travel in 2025
1. Cotopaxi Bataan 13L Sling – Best Overall
Price: $75 | Capacity: 13L | Laptop: Up to 13
We found the Cotopaxi 13L Chasqui to be the best for comfort, organization, and style. [Check Current Price →]
What Makes It Great:
- Comfy shoulder strap with padding
- Lots of pockets
- Keeps water out
- Comes in cool colors
- Lifetime promise
Best For: Getting to work or school and short trips around the city
Hashtags: #CotopaxiSling #CityTravel #EcoFriendlyGear
2. Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L – Best for Photographers
Price: $160 | Capacity: 10L | Laptop: Up to 13
This sling is made really well and has ways to organize your camera gear. href=https://www.peakdesign.com/products/everyday-sling target=_blank rel=nofollow>[Check Current Price →]
What Makes It Great:
- Sections that you can move around
- Keeps water out
- Closes with magnets
- Made with great materials
Best For: People who take photos and want to carry their gear easily
Hashtags: #PeakDesign #CameraSling #TravelPhotography
3. Bellroy Transit Sling – Most Professional
Price: $139 | Capacity: 8L | Laptop: Up to 13
This sling looks simple but has fancy leather touches, making it great for business. [Check Current Price →]
Best For: People who want to look professional while traveling light
Hashtags: #BellroySling #BusinessTravel #SimpleStyle
4. Patagonia Atom Sling 8L – Most Sustainable
Price: $59 | Capacity: 8L | Laptop: Tablet only
Made from recycled stuff, this sling is a great choice for those who care about the environment. [Check Current Price →]
Best For: City people who want to help the planet
Hashtags: #PatagoniaSling #EcoFriendlyTravel #SustainableLiving
5. Aer City Sling 2 – Best Organization
Price: $95 | Capacity: 7L | Laptop: Up to 13
Made in the USA, this sling has smart pockets and compartments for city life. [Check Current Price →]
Best For: People who like to keep everything in its place
Hashtags: #AerSling #MadeInUSA #EverydayCarry
Top City Backpacks for City Travel in 2025 {#best-urban-backpacks}
1. Bellroy Transit Backpack – Best Professional Look
Price: $275 | Capacity: 28L | Laptop: Up to 16
With its fancy materials and professional design, this backpack is great for business trips. products/transit-backpack target=_blank rel=nofollow>[Check Current Price →]
What Makes It Great:
- Leather details
- Special spot for your laptop
- Clean and professional look
- Really well made
Best For: Business people who travel and want a high-quality bag
Hashtags: #BellroyBackpack #BusinessTravel #LuxuryTravel
2. Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack – Best Value
Price: $88 | Capacity: 22L | Laptop: Up to 15
This backpack is made from recycled materials and is easy on your wallet. [Check Current Price →]
Best For: People who want a good backpack without spending too much
Hashtags: #EverlaneBackpack #EcoFriendlyTravel #BudgetTravel
3. Knack Expandable Pack – Most Versatile
Price: $199 | Capacity: 25-32L expandable | Laptop: Up to 15
This backpack can get bigger or smaller depending on how much you need to carry. [Check Current Price →]
Best For: People who need different amounts of space on different days
Hashtags: #KnackBackpack #ExpandableBackpack #MultiuseTravel
4. Patagonia Refugio 28L – Best for Active City Life
Price: $99 | Capacity: 28L | Laptop: Up to 15
This tough backpack has useful pockets and is great for people who are always on the go. html target=_blank rel=nofollow>[Check Current Price →]
Best For: Active people who live in the city and like outdoor activities
Hashtags: #PatagoniaBackpack #ActiveTravel #ToughGear
5. Topo Designs Daypack 22L – Most Stylish
Price: $129 | Capacity: 22L | Laptop: Up to 15
Designed in Colorado, this backpack blends classic style with modern features. blank rel=nofollow>[Check Current Price →]
Best For: People who care about style and exploring the city
Hashtags: #TopoDesigns #ClassicStyle #CityExploration
Which Bag Is Right for You?
Getting to Work or School (Less Than 1 Hour)
Go with a Sling Bag If:
- You take public transportation
- You need to get to your train pass or phone quickly
- You don’t carry much (just a laptop and a few essentials)
- You want to look professional
Go with a Backpack If:
- You drive or walk
- You carry a lot of work or school stuff
- You need space for a laptop, papers, and personal items
- Comfort is more important than getting to things quickly
Our Picks:
- Sling: Bellroy Transit Sling for a professional look
- Backpack: Bellroy Transit Backpack for a great overall experience
Exploring the City as a Tourist (4-8 Hours)
Go with a Sling Bag If:
- You’re visiting museums and other attractions with security
- You want to avoid pickpockets
- You’re just carrying a camera and some basic supplies
Go with a Backpack If:
- You’re out all day and the weather might change
- You’re carrying a lot of camera gear
- You need water and snacks for a group
- You want to be comfortable for hours
Our Picks:
- Sling: Peak Design Everyday Sling for photographers
- Backpack: Patagonia Refugio for exploring
Business Trips in Cities
Go with a Sling Bag If:
- You’re going to meetings and conferences
- You need to look professional
- You’re using digital presentations
- You don’t have to walk far between places
Go with a Backpack If:
- You’re going on long trips (3+ days)
- You’re carrying physical presentation materials
- You need space for a laptop, papers, and business clothes
- Looking super professional isn’t as important
Our Picks:
- Sling: Bellroy Transit Sling for meetings
- Backpack: Knack Expandable Pack for being able to carry different amounts
Student Life on a City Campus
Go with a Sling Bag If:
- You’re just going to quick classes and don’t need much stuff
- You take notes on a tablet
- You have to switch buildings often
- You want to look stylish
Go with a Backpack If:
- You’re carrying textbooks and other materials
- You have long days on campus (8+ hours)
- You need space for gym clothes and personal items
- You’re on a budget
Our Picks:
- Sling: Patagonia Atom Sling for students on a budget
- Backpack: Everlane ReNew Transit for good value and sustainability
Staying Safe in the City
How to Prevent Pickpockets
Why Sling Bags Help:
- You can see the bag at all times
- It’s hard for thieves to get to
- You’ll notice if someone tries to mess with it
- Thieves are less likely to try
How to Make Backpacks Safer:
- Get bags with zippers that can be locked
- Wear it in the front in crowded places
- Use a cable to lock it to something
- Get a bag with straps that can’t be cut
Risky Situations in the City
Crowded Public Transportation:
- Sling bags are great because you can keep them in front of you
- Keep your valuables in hidden pockets
- Always be aware of where your bag is
Tourist Areas and Markets:
- Sling bags help keep thieves away
- Don’t show off expensive electronics
- Keep backup payment methods separate
Late at Night:
- Both types of bags can be stolen
- Consider carrying cash in a hidden belt
- Pay attention to your surroundings
Protecting Your Digital Info
RFID Protection:
- Important for both types of bags
- Keeps your credit cards and passport safe
- Most good bags have this
Hidden Pockets:
- Great for backup payment methods
- Look for pockets inside the bag
- Some slings have hidden panels
Looking Good
Professional Settings
Why Sling Bags Work:
- Don’t get in the way of business clothes
- Easy to store under tables
- Quick to use during presentations
- Look good in meetings with clients
What to Consider with Backpacks:
- Choose simple designs
- Avoid bags that look like they’re for hiking
- Consider leather or other fancy materials
- Make sure it fits well so you stand up straight
Casual Settings
Style:
- Both types of bags work well
- Sling bags let you show off your personal style more
- Backpacks are useful
- Choose colors and materials you like
Who Uses Which?
For Everyone:
- Sling bags are great for all ages
- Backpacks are always a solid choice
- Choose a size that fits your body
- Make sure the straps are comfy
It seems people have different interests, and sling bags for guys might be for biking. It really depends on what you need!
How to Decide: 5 Questions to Ask
1. How Much Stuff Do You Carry?
- Less than 10L: Sling bag is best
- 10-20L: Either option works
- More than 20L: You need a backpack
2. How Long Do You Carry It?
- Less than 2 hours: Sling bag is comfy
- 2-4 hours: Think about how heavy it is
- More than 4 hours: Get a backpack
3. How Worried Are You About Thieves?
- High-risk areas: Sling bag is better
- Generally safe: Either is fine
- Not worried: Choose based on other stuff
4. How Often Do You Need to Grab Something?
- Often: Sling bag is essential
- Sometimes: Either works
- Just need to carry it: Backpack is fine
5. What Does Your Job Require?
- Meeting with clients: Think about how you look
- Casual workplaces: Choose what you like
- Tech jobs: Focus on what works best
Common Questions
Are sling bags better than backpacks for city travel?
If you like style, easy access, and something small, a sling bag is likely what you want. If you need to carry more, want the weight spread out, and need protection, a backpack is a better choice. It all depends on what you need in the city.
How much weight can you comfortably carry in a sling bag?
You need to go light on the packed weight of a sling bag . Most people find 5-8 pounds is comfy, but over 10 pounds will make your shoulder tired after 1-2 hours.
Which is safer from pickpockets?
Sling bags are great protection from pickpockets because they can guard the bag.
Can sling bags fit laptops safely?
Most good sling bags fit 13-15 inch laptops with enough padding. However, bigger laptops (16+ inches) usually need the space of a backpack.
Are backpacks too big for crowded cities?
City backpacks (20-30L) are made for city life and shouldn’t be too big. As long as it is appropriately sized, backpacks can be great for regular travel.
Which is better for public transportation?
Sling bags are great because they’re easy to get to, easy to swing to the front, and don’t take up much space. Backpacks work, but you have to move them around more.
How do I pick the right size for city trips?
For sling bags, 8-13L is good for most things. For backpacks, 20-30L is a good size without being too big. Think about what you usually carry and choose from there.
Are expensive city bags worth it?
Good bags ($150+ for slings, $200+ for backpacks) have better materials, are made better, and have warranties. If you’re using it every day, it’s often worth it for the comfort and how long they last.
Conclusion: The Perfect Bag for You
Deciding between a sling bag and a backpack really depends on your city life. Neither one is better for everyone—they both work well in different situations.
Go with a Sling Bag If:
- You want to get to your stuff easily
- You don’t carry much (less than 10L)
- You use public transportation a lot
- You work in a professional place
- You want to keep pickpockets away
- You want to keep your hands free
Go with a Backpack If:
- You need a lot of space (20L+)
- You carry heavy stuff often
- You spend long hours traveling
- You need space for a laptop, papers, and more
- You want it to be comfy
- You don’t need to get to your stuff quickly
Sometimes, Both: Some people use a small backpack for bigger days and a sling for work.
Our Top Picks:
- Work: Bellroy Transit Sling or Transit Backpack
- Exploring: Peak Design Everyday Sling or Patagonia Refugio Backpack
- School: Patagonia Atom Sling or Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack
- Creative Work: Peak Design slings or backpacks
Just pick whichever bag you’ll use the most. Think about your day, how much you carry, and what you like to make the right choice.
Want a new bag? Check out our top picks or our full list of sling bags and city backpacks to find the ideal bag!
#SlingBagVsBackpack #CityTravel #CityLife #CityBags #TravelGear2025 #SlingorBackpack #CommuterLife #EverydayCarry #CityTrips #BackpackGuide
