Looking for a sling backpack that will keep your essentials close and easily accessible? You've come to the right place! In this roundup review, we'll look at the best sling backpacks on the market today.
For those looking for a compact and lightweight backpack, sling backpacks are a great choice. They are perfect for days when you only need to carry a few essentials.
Choosing the right sling backpack can be challenging because there are so many options out there.
I spent more than 12 hours researching the best options on the market. I looked at various factors, such as durability, functionality, and capacity.
If you're looking for a sling backpack that ticks all the boxes, you'll want to consider the Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger.
It's our top pick for the best overall sling backpack, but if you have different needs, we also recommend checking out the other options on our list.
Let's get started.
The top 5 sling backpack we recommend for 2024:
Sling Backpack Reviews
It’s time to delve into the top 5 sling bags on the market currently.
Keep scrolling for our comprehensive review of each item so you can choose the one that is right for you.
Let’s get down to business!
Patagonia Atom Sling Backpack
- Highly functional with breathable fabric
- Comfortable mesh and compression straps
- Two separate compartments to fit all your essential items
- You’ll only be able to carry this sling backpack on your left side
- The bag is on the smaller side
- Mobile device pouch could be too small for larger smartphones
The first pick on our list is this ultra-functional choice from Patagonia. It features a large main compartment to hold items like your clothes and lunch, plus a separate section specifically designed to store electronics like your phone and tablet.
We also like the fact that the main compartment includes a key clip to secure items such as your passport or sunglasses. Unfortunately, the bag is not ambidextrous, so you won’t be able to switch it from one side to the other if your shoulder starts to ache.
The Patagonia Atom Sling Backpack is almost ergonomically designed, with mesh straps made for optimal comfort and exterior compression straps that you can adjust for weight.
Another reason we picked this product was its durable, water repellent finish that will keep all your belongings warm and dry if you come across an unexpected rainstorm. What’s more, the light and breathable fabric of this sling bag won’t make your skin all sweaty and irritated if you’re wearing it for long periods.
5.11 Tactical Sling Bag Shoulder Pack
- Ergonomically sound handle and compression straps
- Adjustable strap so you can wear the bag on either shoulder
- Concealed carry pouch
- The strap can wear out quickly with extended use
- Lack of cushioning mesh to protect your belongings in case the bag drops
- Not designed to transport very heavy gear for long periods that strain the strap
The Moab 10 Tactical Bag Shoulder Pack by 5.11 has an impressive 18-liter capacity, with multiple storage compartment options. We really like the added touch of the sunglass pocket with fleece lining, plus the key fobs and lining if you need to secure extra gear.
The 5.11 Tactical Sling Shoulder Pack features a main compartment, front compartment, shoulder pocket, and even a hydration pocket within easy reach.
We really liked the fact that this sling backpack also sports webbing on the inside and outside so you can secure your gear, including name tape and flag Velcro. For survival expeditions and other outdoor adventures, you’ll have a communications pocket with a mic/earbud section too.
The sling backpack also features compression straps to distribute the weight of the bag resting against your shoulder and a concealed carry pouch to boot.
While we wish this sling backpack had extra cushioning mesh to protect your belongings in case the bag gets tossed around or drops, it’s large storage capacity means you’ll be able to hold everything from essential devices to your water bottle to food.
Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling Pack
- 6 storage compartments for maximum storage space
- A comfortable strap that won’t irritate your neck
- Ambidextrous design
- The lining is not very thick
- Not ideal to stand up against the elements like rain
- Storage capacity is not as large as other models on the market
The next sling backpack on our list is a classic choice for anyone looking for a concealed carry unit. We especially like the ambidextrous strap that allows you to access your important items with ease and switch the bag to either shoulder if one starts to hurt.
Plus, the large main compartment is big enough to house the majority of tablet sizes. While we wish the bag had a slightly larger storage capacity, it still has a moderate 9 liters of space, making it a good choice for shorter hikes.
The carry handle makes it a breeze to grab the Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling Pack on the go, with the quick release bucket on the main strap makes for easy maneuvering.
There’s a huge master compartment for devices and small gear items, a concealed carry sleeve on the back, and multiple external pockets for maximum storage space. So, you’ll have a total of 6 compartments of storage space. Not bad for a 9-liter backpack!
Altura Photo Camera Sling Backpack
- Transports DSLR plus as many as 6 lenses at once
- Good for carrying laptops and other devices
- Customizable padding
- Weather-resistant exterior
- The interior padding is not very thick
- The bag might be on the smaller side for larger equipment needs
For photography enthusiasts, this sling backpack is an ideal fit. Featuring padded dividers and a side opening for easy access, it stores a DSLR with as many as 6 lenses at any one time. You can also transport a tripod and shoe mount flash inside too.
We really liked that this Altura Photo Camera Sling Backpack also sports a handy, padded slip pocket to carry a laptop for 14 inches or less.
You also have the option to customize the inside as you prefer by taking out the padding, which we feel is a useful bonus feature.
If you’re going to be snapping world-class photos in the great outdoors, you’re in luck because this backpack is also weather resistant with a nylon exterior and reinforced stitching.
The straps are padded for extra comfort and easily adjusted. While the interior also features interior padding, the cushioning is not particularly thick, so bear that in mind when packing sensitive devices.
Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger
- Many storage compartments, including hydration and ventilation pockets
- Excellent 15-liter capacity
- Nylon exterior with water-resistant material
- Not ambidextrous so could cause strain to individuals with sensitive or injured shoulders
- The second strap doesn’t hold up the primary strap
The final pick on our list is well suited to outdoor expeditions, survival adventures, and hiking trips. With extensive webbing and multiple storage compartments, we feel this could be a strong contender for outdoor enthusiasts. The exterior is not only stylish but highly durable, while the bag is still lightweight and easy to carry.
We really like that the 3-pound Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger is ergonomically designed to distribute the weight of its contents in order to avoid strain, making it a good option for frequent hikers.
You’ll also enjoy plenty of storage space with a concealed weapon carrying pouch, double coated, hydration, and ventilation pockets. Plus, the bag features a 15-liter capacity and can even carry a 14.1-inch laptop.
The bag is manufactured with strong nylon polymers to help retain its shape and appearance, with water-resistant material both inside and out to avoid rain damage and a Teflon protector. The only primary area where this bag falls short is that it isn’t ambidextrous, so you won’t be able to switch shoulders.
The Benefits of Using a Sling Backpack
Sling backpacks are a fantastic option to leave your hands free, whether you’re climbing a steep mountain, riding a bike, or roaming on a wooded path out in nature. A sling backpack purse rests on the hip, remaining in your periphery for enhanced security and easy accessibility at all times.
Let’s delve a bit deeper into the top benefits of using a sling backpack.
Light to Carry
One of the primary benefits of using a sling backpack is the fact that they are so light to carry. In fact, the majority of sling backpacks weigh just around 1 to 3 pounds.
So, you’ll have a much easier time transporting your essentials on the go without causing overt strain to your back and neck.
Keeps You Organized
You should look for a sling backpack that has 2 or more handy compartments for you to store everything from books to your tablet to light hiking gear in.
You’ll stay more organized with a sling backpack because you can situate bulkier items in the large sections and distribute the more lightweight items in the smaller compartments.
Easy to Reach
If you’re tired of rifling through your regular backpack for your water bottle or your favorite snack, the great thing about sling backpacks is that you can simply adjust them forward and reach in to get what you need.
Not only will this save you considerable strain, but it makes it far easier to keep track of all your belongings.
More Secure
Another key benefit of sling backpacks is the fact that they sit straight across your body. With a regular backpack, almost anyone can reach in behind you and snatch valuable items before you have a chance to react.
The design of a sling backpack greatly reduces the likelihood of theft because you have constant access to it at all times.
Plus, some of the sling bags come with special anti-theft compartments, making it easier to bring vulnerable items like your wallet on the go without any security concerns.
How to Choose a Sling Backpack for Hiking
Before you start shopping, there are some key points you need to consider when selecting a sling backpack. Let’s take a closer look!
Usage
The first thing you need to consider before purchasing a sling backpack is your intended usage of the bag.
Will you be using the sling backpack for traveling or hiking only? Or, do you want to use the sling backpack for work as well?
For example, if you intend to use your sling backpack for work too, you would need to look for features like a laptop sleeve and a compartment to transport your lunches.
On the other hand, if you intend to take your sling backpack for traveling on the road, compartments like a water pocket are critical.
You would also want to take care the backpack you select is not too bulky or weighty since the brunt of what you’re carrying would be felt by one shoulder.
Bear in mind, a sling backpack purse is best suited to shorter hikes, but not overnight trips where you’ll require lots of gear.
Size
The next thing you need to consider when purchasing a sling backpack is the size you’ll require.
Sling backpacks are designed to be smaller than the traditional variety, so you’ll have less carrying options than you otherwise would.
For instance, the largest sling backpacks can typically carry a water bottle, lunch, 15-inch laptop, and potentially a smaller device like a tablet or phone.
The smaller sling backpacks currently sold on the market can usually store a tablet and a few key items like your wallet and phone, but not much more.
If you intend to take your sling backpack with you for travel, either domestically or abroad, you’ll need to ensure your selection is compliant with the standard airline size for carry-ons.
Key Features
There are some key features you should keep an eye out for if you are in the market for a sling backpack.
If you plan on traveling during the rainy season, choose a sling backpack with water-resistant material to protect all your belongings.
You always want to select a bag that is both sturdy and highly durable so it will last you for years to come.
Another key feature to look for is a sling backpack that lets you adjust the side of the strap so you can switch it between shoulders if you like.
Also, pay attention to how many pockets the bag has to make sure you have enough to carry all your essential items. Padded straps that you can adjust if need be are also a helpful feature to look for.
Final Thoughts
While all the products on our list of the best sling backpacks meet an array of user needs, after careful deliberation, we feel the clear champion of the pack is the Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger. While you won’t be able to switch the bag from one shoulder to the next as you would with products like the Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling Pack, it ticks all the other key wishlist boxes.
The Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger is great for outdoor enthusiasts who need a durable, waterproof sling bag to store everything from a change of clothes and food to books and electronics. It is one of the largest sling backpacks on our list in terms of capacity, which means you’ll get more storage space for your investment.
Plus, its lightweight design won’t have you grimacing in discomfort after a few hours of trekking. For its organization options, ergonomic functionality, and flexible usage, the Maxpedition Sitka Gearslinger is a definite winner in our book.
Sling Backpack for Hiking FAQ
Here are our answers to your most commonly asked questions about hiking sling backpack:
Is sling bag good for hiking?
We recommend sling bags for short walks and when you need quick access to your belongings. Do not use a sling backpack for long hikes because they do not provide the same back support and features as regular hiking backpacks.
Are slings better than backpacks?
Sling bags offer limited capacity and can be uncomfortable since they can only be carried by one shoulder. Bring a backpack instead of a sling bag when hiking. A backpack can hold most hiking essentials and is more comfortable to wear since it is carried on both shoulders.
Is a sling bag good for your back?
Sling bags are designed to carry less weight. Carrying an overloaded sling bag for a long time can result in one-sided strain and back pain. As the bag can only be carried on one shoulder, it's important to alternate which shoulder you place the strap on and to stretch your shoulders and chest muscles after using it.
