This article reviews the highest-rated one-strap backpacks for school, work, travel, and outdoor activities. We compared storage capacity, comfort, durability, and style across brands such as Under Armour, Adidas, Pacsafe, and OutdoorMaster. Whether you need lots of organization for books or a slim pack for hiking, we’ve got you covered.
Read on for our picks of the most functional and comfortable one-strap backpacks for easily carrying gear. We’ll also provide tips on organizing and properly wearing a single-strap backpack to avoid back pain.
KAVU Rope Bag – Sling Pack for Hiking, Camping, and Commuting
The KAVU Rope Bag-Sling Pack is versatile and durable for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and commuting. The bag is sturdy, comfortable, and made from soft, tightly woven 100% 12 oz Cotton Canvas. The bag’s dimensions are 20 inches x 11 inches x 5 inches, providing ample space for essentials. The bag features an adjustable rope shoulder strap of 22 to 44 inches, allowing for a customized fit. It includes two vertical zip compartments, two key or cell phone pockets, and a padded back with KAVU embroidery for added comfort and convenience. The bag also has a cellphone pocket size of 7 inches x 4 inches, compatible with iPhone X, Samsung Galaxy S20, and Google Pixel 5. For those needing additional strap length, a compatible Strap Extension is available.
The KAVU Rope Bag is a product of the KAVU brand, which stands for “Klear Above Visibility Unlimited.” This Seattle-based team is known for infusing fun into their products, creating gear, and encouraging adventure and good vibes. The bag has received positive customer reviews, with many praising its durability, spaciousness, and convenience. Some users have noted that it can comfortably hold items like iPads and smaller books, making it an excellent choice for everyday use or travel. However, some users have pointed out that the pocket may not fit larger phones with covers. The KAVU Rope Bag-Sling Pack is a reliable and stylish option for those seeking a functional and durable bag for their outdoor adventures or daily commute.
Nicgid Sling Bags Chest Shoulder Backpacks
The Nicgid Sling Bags Chest Shoulder Backpacks are versatile and functional bags designed for both men and women. Made from high-quality, water-resistant nylon material, these bags are durable and lightweight, weighing approximately 1.54 pounds. The dimensions of the bag are 12.2in(L) x 16.5in(H) x 5.1in(W), making it compact yet spacious enough to fit a laptop up to 14.1 inches without a sleeve or case. The bag features a zipper closure and a nylon lining, ensuring the safety of your belongings. It has multiple internal pockets and three external compartments, providing ample space for organizing accessories. The main zippered pocket is fitted with a pull for easy access.
One of the standout features of this bag is its adjustable padded strap. The length can be adjusted to fit different body shapes and sizes, and the strap clip allows it to be switched between the left or right-hand side, suiting your body shape. This feature ensures no limited backward arm movement, enhancing comfort during use. The bag also includes an organizer compartment, side pockets for a water bottle or umbrella, and a hidden anti-theft pocket for valuables. Despite its compact size, the bag is highly functional and can be used for various activities such as day trips, shopping, or dates. It can be carried using the top handle or the adjustable shoulder strap.
Customers have positively reviewed the Nicgid Sling Bags Chest Shoulder Backpacks for their ruggedness, generous capacity, and functionality. They are available in black, grey, and army green. The company, Nicgid, has operated since 2015 and is committed to providing reliable, high-quality products for daily journeys and adventures.
Storvyllf One Strap Backpack, Sling Bag
The Storvyllf One Strap Backpack, also known as a Sling Bag, is a versatile and practical accessory designed for both men and women. It is ideal for day trips, hiking, gym use, or travel. The bag is made from waterproof nylon fabric, ensuring the contents remain in good condition even during rainy days. The bag is large enough to accommodate an iPad, books, a sun-protection coat, a water bottle, and a cellphone. It features a separate compartment designed for an iPad, which can hold up to 12 inches. Other rooms include a front pocket perfect for smaller items like pens, earphones, keys, and tissues and a small bag for tiny objects. One of the standout features of this sling bag is its headphone jack design, allowing users to enjoy music or listen to news while on the move.
There’s also a phone bag design for easy access to your mobile phone without opening the backpack. The shoulder strap is reversible, making it convenient for users to switch according to their carrying habits. Despite its ample storage capacity, the bag is lightweight, weighing only 0.73 pounds. Its dimensions are 11.8 x 5.1 x 18.7 inches, making it a medium-sized suitcase with excellent practicality. However, customer reviews indicate mixed experiences with the product. Some customers praised its comfort and ease of use, while others reported issues with the durability of the zippers and straps.
Carhartt Mono Sling Backpack, Unisex Crossbody Bag for Travel and Hiking, Carhartt Brown
The Carhartt Mono Sling Backpack is a unisex crossbody bag for travel and hiking. It is a hands-free, one-shoulder backpack that can be worn as a crossbody or sling backpack, providing easy access to everyday essentials like phones and wallets. The bag is made with Rain Defender, a durable water repellent that keeps your gear dry in light rain. The backpack features multi-functional storage pockets, including a 19-inch main compartment with a padded tablet sleeve and a fleece-lined front room with a critical fob for essential items. The adjustable padded mono shoulder strap has a side-release buckle closure for easy off-and-on. Other features include a hidden front zippered organization pocket. The backpack measures 9 inches in width, 19 inches in height, and 5 inches in length, making it very lightweight.
The Carhartt Mono Sling Backpack has received high customer ratings for its sturdiness, water resistance, durability, and lightweight design. However, some customers have noted that the material is thinner than expected and that the bag collects dirt quickly. Despite these minor drawbacks, many customers love the backpack for its functionality and durability. Amazon.com sells the pack, and is eligible for return, refund, or replacement within 30 days of receipt. It is also frequently bought with other Carhartt products, such as the Adjustable Waist Pack for Men and Women and the Durable, Adjustable Crossbody Bag with Zipper Closure.
CANTLOR Men Small Sling Bag
The CANTLOR Men’s Small Sling Bag is a crossbody backpack for travel and outdoor activities. It is lightweight and compact, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer to travel light. The bag is made of superior waterproof nylon material, ensuring durability and protection against the elements. The bag’s dimensions are 9 x 3.7 x 14.6 inches, with a total capacity of 3 liters. Despite its small size, it can accommodate items such as a 9.7-inch iPad, making it a versatile option for various needs. The bag weighs 0.8 pounds, ensuring comfort even when worn for extended periods.
The sling bag features a multi-function adjusting strap that allows users to switch between left and right shoulder carrying. This feature enhances comfort and adaptability. The bag has a reflective strip design that provides a warning effect when walking or riding outdoors, improving safety. The bag comes in black and is fashioned from nylon. Its style is described as a fashion crossbody bag suitable for men. The brand name is CANTLOR, and the model name is 991801. The bag is recommended for hiking and other outdoor activities.
The bag has received positive customer reviews, with many praising its capacity, quality, and versatility. Some users have noted that it is perfect for carrying laptops, especially for travel or school work. However, some users have pointed out that the side pockets could be more significant for more utility. The CANTLOR Men’s Small Sling Bag is priced at $21.99 and is available on Amazon. The brand is committed to creating perfect products and services for every consumer, aiming to produce beauty and serve life.
Sakroots Women’s Go Sling Backpack in Nylon Eco Twill, Midnight Seascape
The Sakroots Women’s Go Sling Backpack in Nylon Eco Twill, Midnight Seascape, is a stylish and durable bag for everyday use. It combines functionality with fashion, offering ample space for essentials such as a phone, wallet, and keys. The backpack features a main zipper closure, a front pocket with a magnetic snap closure, two exterior pockets, and an interior with one back zipper pocket and one slip pocket. It also has an adjustable sling strap and antique hardware.
The bag is made from Repreve Eco-Twill, a material that is not only durable, water-repellent, and stain-resistant but also environmentally friendly as it is made from recycled materials, including plastic bottles. The bag’s interior is lined with PETA-approved and Vegan vegan-certified reprieve Lining. The bag’s dimensions are 9″ L x 6″ W x 15″ H, with a strap drop of up to 25.5”. It can be cleaned by wiping it with a barely damp cloth and drying it air.
Sakroots is known for its free-spirited lifestyle products featuring exclusive artist prints mixed with craft details. All their bags are vegan-certified, and their marks support Oceana, an organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the world’s oceans. The product has received positive reviews from customers who appreciate its lightweight design, multiple pockets, and the convenience of wearing it as a crossbody. Some customers, however, have expressed wishes for additional pockets or a larger size. The bag is priced at $43.99 and is available for immediate shipping.
Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling Pack, Wave Blue, One Size
The Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling Pack, Wave Blue, One Size, is a versatile and compact bag for everyday use or short hikes. The product was first made available on June 30, 2022, and has since gained popularity in the sports and outdoors category. The pack is crafted by Osprey, a company renowned for its commitment to quality since its inception in 1974. Every product bearing the Osprey name undergoes rigorous scrutiny under the watchful eye of owner and founder Mike Pfotenhauer. This dedication to quality is evident in the Daylite Shoulder Sling Pack’s design and features.
The sling pack offers an over-the-shoulder, ambidextrous carry and convenient Daylite features. It is designed to securely carry daily essentials, featuring breathable and soft spacer mesh material on a single anatomically shaped shoulder strap for next-to-skin comfort. The front zippered mesh pocket stores smaller, easy-to-access items, while the main compartment offers organization sleeves and a key clip. The pack also includes dual U-zip access to the main room, an interior mesh organizer and key clip, a multifunctional interior sleeve, a zippered front panel slash pocket, and a harness stretch mesh pocket. The pack can be worn over the left or right shoulder for an ambidextrous fit and carry.
The product has received positive customer reviews, rating 4.6 out of 5 stars from 684 ratings. Users have praised the pack for its lightweight design, organizational options, and comfort. However, some users have noted that the zipper could be smoother and that the bag might be too small for more oversized items like a tablet. The Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling Pack, Wave Blue, One Size, is priced between $29.99 and $79.99, offering value for money given its quality and features.
OIWAS Sling Bag For Men Fit 12.9 Inch Tablet Lightweight One Strap Backpack
The OIWAS Sling Bag for Men is a versatile and lightweight backpack that accommodates a 12.9-inch tablet. Measuring 9.84 x 5.9 x 14.57 inches, this bag is compact yet spacious enough to carry essential items for travel, hiking, cycling, or everyday use. The bag features a breathable and damping material on the shoulder strap and back, ensuring comfort during prolonged use. One of the standout features of this bag is its waterproof quality, achieved through the use of high-quality water-resistant material and sturdy zippers. This ensures the bag’s durability and longevity, even in challenging weather conditions.
The bag also includes a convenient USB port design, allowing users to charge their phones without removing the power bank from the pack. This feature makes it an excellent choice for outdoor activities and commuting. The bag’s storage capacity is well-organized, with multiple compartments. The large main room can hold up to a 12.9-inch tablet, while the front pocket provides space for phones, wallets, and other small items. Despite its capacity, the bag remains lightweight and easy to carry.
However, some users have reported issues with the bag’s single-strap design. The strap is quite broad and tends to slip off the shoulder, which can be inconvenient for some users. Despite this, the bag has received positive reviews for its construction, durability, and fair pricing. As of August 24, 2023, the product is currently unavailable, and it is unclear when or if it will be back in stock.