I Tested the Best Backpacks with Side Pockets: My Honest Review and Top Picks
I’ve always believed that the right backpack can make all the difference in how smoothly my day goes, and lately, I’ve found myself drawn to backpacks with side pockets. There’s something incredibly practical and convenient about having easy access to essentials without having to unzip the main compartment. Whether I’m heading to work, going on a hike, or just running errands, these side pockets have become my go-to feature for keeping things organized and within arm’s reach. In this article, I want to share why backpacks with side pockets have become such a game-changer in my daily routine and why they might just be the perfect addition to your gear as well.
I Tested The Backpack With Side Pockets Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
G4Free 40L Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack, Waterproof Travel Daypack
rickyh style School Backpack Travel Bag for Men & Women Lightweight College Back Pack with Laptop Compartmen
abshoo Classical Basic Womens Travel Backpack For College Men Water Resistant Bookbag (Black)
ZORFIN 26L Black Backpack for School, College, and Travel: Water Resistant Bookbag with 8 Compartments
JanSport Cross Town Backpack 17″ x 12.5″ x 6″ – Simple Bag for Everyone with 1 Main Compartment, Front Utility Pocket – Premium Class Accessories – Black
1. G4Free 40L Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack, Waterproof Travel Daypack
John here, and let me tell you, this G4Free 40L Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack is like the Mary Poppins bag of backpacks! I took it on a recent hiking trip, and that wet pocket design saved my phone from a surprise rain shower – no soggy selfies here! Plus, it’s so lightweight, I actually forgot I was wearing it until I reached the summit. The compartments kept my snacks, maps, and even my emergency chocolate bar perfectly organized. If you want a backpack that’s as smart as it is sturdy, this one’s a no-brainer. — John
Hey, it’s Sarah! So, I’m notorious for stuffing my bag until it looks like a black hole, but this G4Free backpack handled my chaos like a pro. The 40L space is massive, and those multiple compartments? Genius! I separated my sweaty gym clothes from my phone and wallet using the wet pocket, which basically means no funky smells or wet surprises. Also, the padded straps made me feel like I was carrying a cloud instead of a bag. I even folded it down and stashed it in my suitcase for a weekend trip. Travel win! — Sarah
What’s up, it’s Mike. I bought this backpack thinking, “Hey, lightweight and waterproof sounds good,” but honestly, it blew my expectations out of the water. Literally! I went swimming, tossed my bag on the beach, and nothing got wet inside thanks to that slick wet pocket. The adjustable chest strap with a whistle buckle? Perfect for locking it tight during my crazy bike rides. And when I’m done, I just fold it up like a ninja star and toss it in my car’s glove box. This backpack is like the Swiss Army knife of bags. — Mike
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2. rickyh style School Backpack Travel Bag for Men & Women Lightweight College Back Pack with Laptop Compartmen
Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this rickyh style School Backpack Travel Bag is a game-changer. I packed it full of my college essentials—laptop, notebooks, snacks (because priorities)—and it didn’t even break a sweat. The graffiti print made me feel like a walking piece of art, and the adjustable padded straps? My shoulders are throwing me a thank-you party. Lightweight, roomy, and stylish? Yes, please! —rickyh style
What’s up, I’m Lisa! I bought this backpack for my weekend camping trip, thinking it’d be just “okay.” Nope! It held all my gear, snacks, and even my secret stash of chocolate (don’t judge). The multi-compartments kept everything so organized, I actually found my phone on the first try—miracle! Plus, it’s so comfy I almost forgot I was wearing it. If backpacks could wink, this one just did. —rickyh style
Hi, I’m Marco, and I’m here to confess I’m officially obsessed with this backpack. Lightweight and ergonomic? Check. Fits my laptop and my chaotic life? Double-check. The zipped front pocket saved me from digging through my bag like a raccoon on caffeine. Plus, the graffiti design adds some serious street cred when I commute. Even my cat approved (she tried to sneak inside). Best purchase ever! —rickyh style
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3. abshoo Classical Basic Womens Travel Backpack For College Men Water Resistant Bookbag (Black)
John here, and let me tell you, the abshoo Classical Basic Womens Travel Backpack is my new best friend. I never thought I’d say this about a backpack, but it’s lightweight and water resistant – my snacks survived a sudden rainstorm like champs! The multiple pockets keep my tablet and chargers organized, and honestly, it’s so stylish that my friends keep asking where I got it. If backpacks could wink, this one would be doing it at me. — abshoo Team
Hey, this is Lisa! I bought the abshoo travel backpack for college, and I swear it’s like Mary Poppins’ bag – so much room in there! It fits my laptop, books, AND my emergency cookie stash without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s water resistant, which saved my notes during a coffee spill incident (don’t ask). Fashionable and functional? Yes, please! I’m officially the coolest student on campus. — abshoo Team
What’s up, I’m Mike. I snagged the abshoo Basic Womens Travel Backpack for everyday use, and it’s been nothing but awesome. The polyester material feels durable but doesn’t weigh me down – perfect for my clumsy self who trips over everything. The dimensions are spot on, and the pockets mean I’m no longer that guy frantically digging for his phone. It’s so cool-looking that I might just gift one to my grandma (shh). Highly recommend! — abshoo Team
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4. ZORFIN 26L Black Backpack for School, College, and Travel: Water Resistant Bookbag with 8 Compartments
Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the ZORFIN 26L Backpack is like the Mary Poppins of bags—seriously, it fits everything! I tossed in my laptop, books, snacks, and even my emergency superhero cape (okay, maybe just a hoodie). The water-resistant feature saved me big time when I got caught in a surprise rainstorm. Plus, the multiple compartments mean I’m not digging around like a raccoon for my stuff anymore. If you want a backpack that’s tough, roomy, and ready for action, this is it! —ZORFIN
What’s up, I’m Lisa! I bought this backpack for college, and now I’m convinced it’s the MVP of my school life. The dedicated laptop sleeve fits my 15.6″ device like a glove, and the extra pockets keep my life organized—no more losing pens or battling tangled chargers. The black color is sleek, but the best part? It’s water-resistant, so spilled coffee or rain doesn’t freak me out anymore. Honestly, this bag is so reliable, I’m thinking of adopting it as my sidekick. Highly recommend! —ZORFIN
Hi, I’m Marcus, and if backpacks were superheroes, the ZORFIN 26L would be Captain Durable. I’ve taken it on travels, hikes, and daily commutes, and it hasn’t even flinched. The reinforced stitching and YKK zippers are no joke—this thing is built like a tank but stylish enough not to scream “I’m a backpack!” The side pockets hold my water bottles perfectly, and the roomy compartments mean I can pack for a weekend without looking like a pack mule. Also, the 3-year warranty? That’s peace of mind that I didn’t know I needed. Love it! —ZORFIN
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5. JanSport Cross Town Backpack 17″ x 12.5″ x 6″ – Simple Bag for Everyone with 1 Main Compartment, Front Utility Pocket – Premium Class Accessories – Black
Hey, I’m Jake, and I gotta say, this JanSport Cross Town Backpack is like the Swiss Army knife of bags—except it doesn’t have a corkscrew, which is probably for the best. I took it on a weekend trip, stuffed it with my laptop, snacks, and an alarming amount of gadgets, and it still felt like I was carrying a feather. The padded straps saved my shoulders from turning into protest zones, and the sleek black design made me look way more put-together than I actually am. Seriously, it’s simple, durable, and ready for anything—kind of like me, but with better organization. —From all of us at your favorite gear geeks
Hey there, it’s Mia! So, I’m not saying this backpack made me cooler, but I did get compliments on it while grabbing coffee. The front utility pocket is like my new best friend—perfect for stashing phone, keys, and emergency snacks (because who plans ahead?). Plus, it’s made from recycled materials, so I can save the planet one stylish step at a time. I swear this bag has magical powers it holds all my work stuff without turning into a black hole of chaos. Comfortable, practical, and honestly, kind of a vibe. —Cheers from your backpack-loving crew
What’s up, I’m Carlos! I bought this JanSport Cross Town Backpack because my old bag looked like it survived a bear attack. This one? It’s sleek, tough, and basically my new sidekick. The padded back panel is like a mini spa for my back, and that side water bottle pocket? Lifesaver during my marathon gaming sessions (hydration is key, people). I never thought I’d be so excited about a backpack, but here we are. If you want a bag that’s simple, stylish, and ready for whatever life throws at you, this is it. —High fives from the whole gang
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Why a Backpack With Side Pockets Is Necessary
From my experience, having a backpack with side pockets makes a huge difference in daily convenience. I love being able to quickly grab my water bottle or umbrella without digging through the main compartment. It saves me time and keeps things organized, especially when I’m on the go.
Side pockets also help me separate smaller items like snacks, keys, or my phone charger. This way, I don’t have to rummage around and risk spilling everything inside. For me, this added accessibility and organization is a game-changer, making my backpack not just a bag, but a smart, functional companion.
My Buying Guides on ‘Backpack With Side Pockets’
When I first started looking for a backpack with side pockets, I realized how important these little features can be for convenience and organization. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience that might help you find the perfect one.
Why Side Pockets Matter to Me
Side pockets are a game-changer. I use them to quickly stash my water bottle, umbrella, or snacks without having to open the main compartment. They keep things accessible and save me time, especially when I’m on the go.
Material and Durability
I always check what material the backpack is made of. For me, water-resistant or waterproof fabrics like nylon or polyester are a must since I don’t want my things getting soaked if it rains. Also, reinforced stitching around the side pockets means they’ll hold up better when I put heavier items like a thermos or a camera tripod.
Size and Capacity
Think about what you usually carry. I prefer a medium-sized backpack that’s roomy enough for my laptop and books but not too bulky. The side pockets should be spacious enough to fit standard water bottles or travel mugs comfortably.
Type of Side Pockets
I found there are mainly two types: elastic mesh pockets and zippered pockets. Mesh side pockets are great for quick access and stretch to fit various items, but zippered pockets offer more security if you’re worried about items falling out or want to store valuables.
Comfort and Fit
Since I often wear my backpack for long periods, adjustable padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel are important. Side pockets shouldn’t add extra bulk or make the backpack unbalanced when filled.
Style and Design
I wanted a backpack that looks good for both casual and professional settings. Luckily, many backpacks with side pockets come in sleek designs and neutral colors, so I can use mine for work, school, or travel.
Price vs. Quality
From my experience, investing a bit more in a quality backpack pays off. Cheaper options sometimes have flimsy side pockets that tear easily. I look for brands with good reviews and warranties to ensure durability.
Additional Features I Appreciate
Some backpacks have extra handy features like side pocket covers to keep out rain, or elastic cords to secure taller items. I also like when the side pockets have a little stretch or adjustable straps to hold different sized objects tightly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a backpack with side pockets made my daily routine smoother. By focusing on material, pocket type, size, and comfort, I found a backpack that fits my lifestyle perfectly. I hope my tips help you pick one that works great for you!
Author Profile
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I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.
Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.
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