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Roll top backpacks are a bit of a sleeper category in the wide world of “bags that hold your stuff.” As the name implies, they’re equipped with a top flap that you pull back to gain quick access to your gear. Even for a backpack, they’re very simple. They’re also gaining popularity for city and outdoor life alike.
Whether you’re a hardcore hiker, city dweller, or daily commuter, there’s a roll top backpack for you. We do the testing and research so you don’t have to, so read on for the best roll top backpacks.
- Best Overall: Timbuk2 Especial Supply Roll Top
- Best Budget: Johnny Urban Emil
- Best Waterproof: Earth Pak Summit Dry Bag
- Best Recycled: Ogio Alpha Convoy 525R Backpack
- Best for Cameras: Vanguard VEO SELECT 43RB Camera Bag
- Best Leather: Berliner Bags LEEDS Leather Backpack
- Best for Laptops: TIMBUK2 Tuck Laptop Backpack
- Best for Hiking: Fjallraven Ulvo Rolltop 30
Best Overall
Timbuk2 Especial Supply Roll Top
Best Budget
Johnny Urban Emil
Best Waterproof
Earth Pak Summit Dry Bag
Best Recycled
Ogio Alpha Convoy 525R Backpack
Best for Cameras
Vanguard Veo Select Camera Bag
Best Leather
Berliner Bags Leeds Leather Backpack
Best for Laptops
Timbuk2 Tuck Laptop Backpack
Best for Hiking
Fjallraven Ulvo Rolltop 30
Things to consider before buying a roll top backpack
Roll top backpacks are a smaller segment in the backpack industry, but they are rapidly gaining popularity for several reasons. They originated with dry bags, which are an effective closure style for keeping water out. Along with water resistance, roll top construction is simpler and therefore more durable, lighter, and generally less expensive than the zippered alpine-style bags most of us are more familiar with.
Also, alpine-style bags generally can’t be collapsed when you’re not carrying as much gear, but roll top bags are specifically designed to collapse down for easier carry or stowing, then unroll to accommodate more essentials on longer treks.
There are four major considerations when choosing most roll top bags: weight, volume, construction materials, and price.
Weight
Roll top bags generally weigh one to three pounds. The lighter-weight bags tend to be less water-resistant, smaller in volume, and have fewer ergonomic (hiking) features. Heavier roll tops are generally more water-resistant, durable, and comfortable for longer hikes.
Volume
Most roll top backpacks hold between 18 and 30 liters, but there are a few larger exceptions. Larger volume bags are generally pricier and heavier.
Construction materials
The two main categories are synthetic (polymer-based) and natural. Natural bags come mostly in leather and canvas. Polymer bags are generally lighter and more technical than natural bags. Natural bags are generally more stylish and can be rather expensive.
Price
Roll top bags are generally less expensive than their alpine counterparts, and cost between $20 and $200. The less expensive bags generally offer less storage space, fewer features, and use cheaper construction materials. Price goes up with more storage, more features, and better construction materials.
FAQs about roll top backpacks
Q: What are the advantages of a roll top backpack?
A: Roll top backpacks are generally lighter, less expensive, more durable, and more water-resistant than their alpine-style (zipper) counterparts.
Q: What are the disadvantages of a roll top backpack?
A: Compared to alpine-style bags, roll-top backpacks have inferior ergonomics due to their lack of rigid frames, which makes longer hikes more painful. Roll top backpacks also have fewer pouches, pockets, and gear organization options than alpine backpacks.
Q: Are roll top backpacks good?
A: Like most things, they are neither good nor bad, rather they have advantages and disadvantages compared to their alpine-style bag counterparts.
Final thoughts
Looking for an all-around excellent roll top backpack that will stand up to rigorous hikes, driving rain, and the daily commute? Grab the Timbuk2 Especial Supply Roll Top. The water resistance, host of ergonomic hiking features, and unmatched lifetime warranty will keep you adventuring for years to come.
Methodology
To find the best roll top backpacks, I relied on personal experience using a variety of backpacks in a variety of conditions, as well as recommendations by experts and outdoorsmen published on a number of other websites. I compiled a list of all the “best” ones mentioned and their specific award categories.
Next, I tested all of the backpacks I had on hand to authenticate manufacturers’ claims. If I didn’t have a sample, I sourced industry expert opinions who did have first-hand knowledge. For more information on our standards and process, check out the Task & Purpose review guidelines.
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