Picking a backpack sounds simple until you are standing in front of twenty of them. Size, compartments, straps, zips — it is a lot to weigh up for something you will carry every day. Around 35 litres is the sweet spot for most people: big enough for a laptop, lunch, gym kit or a weekend's worth of stuff, but not so big you look like you are off on an expedition. Our 35L BTactical backpack in Black Smoke is £45.99. Here is what we think matters when you are choosing.
Get the size right for your life
Think about your heaviest normal day, not your lightest. If you regularly carry a laptop plus lunch plus a water bottle plus a jumper, you want the full 35 litres — a smaller bag will just mean things dangling off the outside. On the other hand, if it is mostly a laptop and not much else, all that extra space just adds bulk. Be honest about your routine and size for the 90% day, not the exceptional one.
Comfort is non-negotiable
You will feel cheap straps within twenty minutes of a loaded commute. Look for wide, padded shoulder straps that do not dig in, a padded back panel that lets a bit of air through, and a sternum strap to stop the bag sliding around. If you walk any distance with yours, these details matter more than any other feature. Try the bag loaded if you can — an empty backpack tells you nothing.
Compartments beat one big bucket
A single cavernous compartment means twenty minutes of fishing for your keys. A good everyday backpack has a padded laptop sleeve, a quick-access pocket for phone and wallet, and ideally a separate section for a water bottle so leaks cannot reach your electronics. Side pockets for a bottle are a must in our book. Fewer, well-placed pockets beat a dozen fiddly ones.
Built for British weather
Let us be honest: your backpack will get rained on. Look for water-resistant fabric, covered or reversed zips, and a base that does not soak through when you put the bag down on wet ground. Dark colours like Black Smoke hide the wear of daily use far better than pale ones. A well-chosen 35L bag should last you years of commutes, weekends away and everything in between — which makes £45.99 a sensible investment. Browse our walking collection for more everyday carry picks.