Quick Summary: We selected The OutdoorMaster Sling Bag as the top sling backpack. It is lightweight and compact but fits a lot of items inside the bag. It has a pocket on the inside that is concealed to protect items from being stolen. The shoulder strap can be worn on either the right or left side.
It looks like the ’90s are back because sling backpacks are making a comeback. A sling backpack offers a perfect hybrid of the backpack’s comfort and the shoulder bag’s practicality. Whether you want to make a fashion statement or you simply want to have a handy storage for your personal belongings, you should equip yourself with one of these best sling backpacks.
Ergonomically speaking, your neck, shoulders, and back will be forever grateful if you decide to wear one of these sleek backpacks. With a diagonal strap, the weight is distributed more evenly across your body, which reduces stress on your muscles. That is why the sling backpack will be an irreplaceable part of your walking or traveling gear.
Even though the sling backpack has a significantly reduced amount of usable storage (compared to a regular backpack with two straps), it offers you a convenient and stylish way to carry your everyday belongings and to keep an eye on them easily.
The best sling backpacks are equipped with many pockets and hooks, and they have adjustable straps and padded and breathable back panels, which maximize their convenience and comfort. So keep reading to find out what are the best sling backpacks on the market right now.
Quick Navigation
- Top 10 Sling Backpacks Comparison
- Reviews of 10 Top Sling Backpacks
- How To Choose The Right Sling Backpack
- FAQS
- Final Verdict
Top 10 Sling Backpacks Comparison
 | 1. OutdoorMaster Sling Bag (Best overall)Our top pick for the best sling bag because of its versatility and lightweight, water-resistant, cross-body design, it comes with plenty of space, including a water bottle pocket and anti theft features. | Read Our Review |
 | 2. Lecxici Outdoor Chest Sling Bag (Best Budget)Designed for travel, this bag comes in two sizes. The shoulder strap has space for keys or a cell phone, and there are plenty of compartments for your other essentials. | Read Our Review |
 | 3. Crazy Ants Tactical Sling Bag Rover Molle PackThis sling bag has 1 main compartment and 7 other compartments of different sizes, plus shoulder and waist straps to distribute the weight of the durable, waterproof pack. | Read Our Review |
 | 4. Ambry Rope Sling Bag for WomenThese backpacks feature shoulder and rope straps and a padded back for optimal comfort. They include an anti theft pocket for credit cards and money. | Read Our Review |
 | 5. Travel Sling Bags For Women and KidsThese sling bags come with straps that you can adjust to your size. With a front zippered pocket and other compartments, the bag is large enough for books, mobile devices, and more. | Read Our Review |
 | 6. HBAG 20" Crossbody Sling BagThis single-strap bag is great for taking to school or the gym. It's also one of the best travel bags because it's easy to stow on a plane. | Read Our Review |
 | 7. Lecxici Outdoor Chest Sling BagThis lightweight, durable bag for travel is ideal for men, women, and kids. Made of breathable mesh and spongy material, it's designed for maximum comfort. | Read Our Review |
 | 8. Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling PackYou can comfortably carry it on one shoulder right or left. Great for hunting and camping, it also comes with a concealed carry compartment and lots of space for supplies. | Read Our Review |
 | 9. 5.11 RUSH MOAB 10 Tactical Sling BagThis high quality military style-backpack is roomy, versatile, and durable. With an adjustable shoulder strap and several compartments, it's ideal for tactical, hunting, and camping gear, or virtually anything else. | Read Our Review |
 | 10. Leaper Retro Messenger BagThis mini-backpack is durable and good for travel, with lots of pockets, including a zippered compartment for tickets and passports. | Read Our Review |
Reviews of 10 Best Sling Backpacks
Best Overall
1. OutdoorMaster Sling Travel Backpack for Women & Men
What You Will Love: The OutdoorMaster Sling Bag has a strap that is reversible making it perfect for those using right or left hands.
It is the best single shoulder backpacks because it is loved by both men and women. It is perfect for everyday use or for traveling purposes.
Another feature is that this is a large amount of room inside. It is lightweight to carry and yet sturdy for long time use. It is intended to be worn across the body.
It can hold a small 12.5-inch laptop or camera. Most noteworthy is the pocket that is anti-theft because it keeps items hidden. It has many small pockets and a water bottle holder on the outside.
You can change the strap so it is in either direction to carry on the right or left side. Finally, the center of the back has a mesh ribbon providing optimum breathability. This helps prevent you from sweating while carrying the bag.
Pros:
- Outstanding customer service
- Only weighs one pound
Cons:
- The zipper is not the most durable
- Stitching could be better
Best Budget
2. Lecxci Small Outdoor Chest Sling Shoulder Bag
What You Will Love: The Lecxci Small Outdoor Chest Sling Shoulder Bag has a special pocket specifically for key or phone.
The Lecxci Small Outdoor Chest Sling Shoulder Bag is the best single strap backpack because the nylon is completely waterproof and lightweight. This bag does not pill after extensive use.
The stitching on the bag gives it a unique look and it is available in many different colors. This bag is small, measuring 6.5 inches by 2.98 inches by 13.17 inches. It only holds an iPad mini.
Most noteworthy is the mesh sponge that absorbs sweat and wetness to keep you dry and comfortable. This bag is perfect for hiking, biking, and camping.
It has two large compartments helping you store and organize all your items. The side pouch holds a water bottle, sunscreen, or even an umbrella.
Pros:
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Perfect size for children
Cons:
- Does not hold a laptop
- May not be big enough for an adult
3. CRAZY ANTS Tactical Sling Bag Rover Molle Pack Shoulder Sling Backpack
What You Will Love: The Crazy Ants Tactical Sling Bag Rover Molle Pack comes with a tactical patch with the US flag.
The Crazy Ants Tactical Sling Bag Rover Molle Pack is the best tactical sling bag because its superior stitching makes it excellent for everyday use. The shoulder strap is extra comfortable and you can adjust it as needed to fit.
The bag has a waist strap to help stop the bag from swinging while you are carrying it. This is one of the best because it has optimum storage space with one large center pocket, two front pockets on the bottom, one front pocket on the top, and one back pocket.
It also has three organizer pockets inside the bag. Most noteworthy is the nylon construction that ensures it is water-resistant and ultra-durable.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Bag is well liked
Cons:
- Zipper pulls are not sturdy
4. Ambry Rope Sling Bag, Backpack for Women
What You Will Love: The Ambry Rose Sling Bag Backpack for Women comes in many unique patterns and colors to fit all your needs.
The Ambry Rose Sling Bag Backpack for Women is the best one strap backpack because it has many ways to ensure you are comfortable while carrying the bag. You can adjust the shoulder strap so that it meets your needs.
The back of the bag has a comfort pad that forms to your back so it feels comfortable on. The strap has a rope that is braided and stretches but does not slip off your shoulder while you are carrying it.
Another feature is its size of 11 inches by 18 inches makes it perfect to carry everything you need. It can act as a purse or backpack, depending on what suits you.
Finally, it has several compartments including two large center spaces that have vertical zippers and several smaller pockets.
Pros:
- Well made, constructed with quality
- Weighs less than one pound
Cons:
- May not hold up well
- Must pay return shipping costs for exchanges or returns
5. Chrysansmile Travel Crossbody Waterproof Sling Bag
What You Will Love: The Chrysansmile Travel Crossbody Sling Bag includes vacuum plated hardware and quality zippers.
The Chrysansmile Travel Crossbody Sling Bag is one of the best single sling bags that is made of Oxford cloth that is waterproof and resistant to tears. It is super light and durable.
Another feature is all of the bags pockets to increase its carrying capacity. It has two large pockets and one smaller pocket that you can access from the front. The large pocket holds an iPad.
Another feature is the shoulder strap is braided to hold up to a lot of use. You can adjust the strap length. Most noteworthy are the bright designs and colors of the bag, which makes it perfect for kids.
Pros:
- Can hold an iPad
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Smaller than it appears
- Zippers are poor quality
6. HBAG 20″ Sling Backpack Single Strap School Travel Sports Shoulder Bag
What You Will Love: The HBAG 20 inch Sling Backpack Single Strap School Travel Sports Shoulder Bag is the perfect size for a school student.
The HBAG 20 inch Sling Backpack Single Strap School Travel Sports Shoulder Bag is the best shoulder sling bag for outdoor recreation because it can hold items like basketballs and other sports equipment.
This backpack has several different pockets and pouches. Most noteworthy are the bags extra straps and clips to add on extra pockets or items. The material is resistant to water and lightweight while remaining durable. This bags holds laptop that is less than 13 inches.
Pros:
- Perfect for children
Cons:
- Not as big as it seems
7. Lecxci Small Outdoor Chest Sling Shoulder Bag for Man/Woman/Kid
What You Will Love: The Lecxci Small Outdoor Chest Sling Shoulder Bag is waterproof so it can be used on the rainiest days.
The Lecxci Small Outdoor Chest Sling Shoulder Bag is the loved by hikers because it is waterproof nylon on the outside of the bag and the inside is the most durable polyester making it ideal for all your outdoor adventures.
The bag measures 6.69 inches in length by 2.95 inches in width by 14.56 inches in height. It can hold an iPad mini and many other small items securely. It is a functional and stylish looking bag that you will be happy to carry throughout the day.
The strap is a breathable mesh and sponge that keeps the sweat and moisture away from you providing you more comfort. This bag has four pockets and layers to protect all your items. The back pocket can hold a mobile phone that is smaller than seven inches.
Pros:
- Perfect size for a child
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Not the highest quality
- Too small for an adult
8. Red Rock Outdoor Gear – Rover Sling Pack
What You Will Love: The Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling Pack has Molle webbing for added durability and functionality.
The Red Rock Outdoor Gear Rover Sling Pack is perfect for travelers because it has one large center pocket and two other pockets outside the bag to carry all your items.
It is made of 100 percent denier polyester that is extra rugged to ensure complete durability. You can carry this bag on either shoulder and the straps are interchangeable with a buckle that is quick release.
Another feature is the handle by which you can carry it so you do not have to put it on your back. The bag is 8 inches wide by 12 inches high by 6 inches deep. Most noteworthy is the concealed carry pouch in the back panel that snaps closed.
Pros:
- Concealed carry pouch
- Four spaces for the bare minimum
Cons:
- Poor stitching
- Seams unravel
9. 5.11 RUSH MOAB 10 Tactical Sling Bag Shoulder Pack Military Backpack
What You Will Love: The 5.11 Rush MOAB 10 Tactical Sling Bag includes the 5.11 system allowing you to incorporate with other 5.11 bags.
The 5.11 Rush MOAB 10 Tactical Sling Bag has a waterproof design. The fabric is 100 percent nylon giving it a sturdy, but lightweight and water-resistant qualities to protect the bag.
It is completely customizable and the strap is cushioned and adjustable. You can use this bag as a survival bag, for hunting or at the range, or for military purposes. It has multiple pockets giving you plenty of room for storing items.
Pros:
- Great design
- Additional pocket for hydration
Cons:
- Digs into shoulders if loaded to heavily
- Poor customer service
10. Leaper Retro Messenger Bag Canvas Shoulder Backpack
What You Will Love: The Leaper Retro Messenger Bag Canvas Shoulder Backpack buckles at the top and has a vintage look.
The Leaper Retro Messenger Bag Canvas Shoulder Backpack is the best backpack for laptop because it measures 10.2 inches long by 13.6 inches high by 4.4 inches wide.
It is not the largest backpack you can find, but it holds a 13-inch laptop securely. You can carry the bag on your back with the shoulder strap that is adjustable, or by the handle.
It is made of canvas that has a washed looked and it is decorated with leather. Most noteworthy is all the pockets in this bag. It has 10 pockets in all of varying sizes, but you never run out of storage options. The flap at the top buckles and closes securely.
Pros:
- Another quality Leaper product
- Available in multiple colors
Cons:
- Snap closure may fall off
- Not as durable as they claim
11. LPV PRODUCTS Army Tactical Backpack Molle
What You Will Love: LPV Products Army Tactical Backpack Molle includes a waterproof rain cover to protect the bag from all elements.
LPV Products Army Tactical Backpack Molle is the best-concealed carry sling bag because every bag is made by hand paying attention to every detail of the bag.
It is made of the highest quality fabric making it resistant to water and durable. This includes extra protection from all the elements in a cover that resists rips and tears.
Another feature is the width of the molle pack is adjustable based on different belt widths. This is the most effective sling you can buy and it measures 13.4 inches high by 10.3 inches wide by 6 inches deep.
It is comfortable for you to carry and is durable to last you a lifetime. The Tactical Sling Bag has a velcro pad in the center back compartments to conceal items.
Pros:
- 60 day warranty
- Includes Tactical USA Flag Rubber Patch and a Tactical Compact Water Resistant EDC Pouch
Cons:
- Small bag
- Zippers are not sturdy
How To Choose The Right Sling Backpack?
Materials
Your sling backpack should be made of a material that does not fall apart with use. What you want is durable but lightweight. You also need to make sure whether it is waterproof or water-resistant.
Size
You want to make sure the what you pick is big enough to carry all your necessary items. If you plan to use it for any outdoor activity, you want to make sure it can carry food and water.
Design
Be sure to really look into the design of the sling backpack you want. The design may look really nice but be completely useless to you. You need to make sure that the it is designed in a way that makes sense for your use.
Comfort
You want a bag that you can carry comfortably and will not hurt your back. If you have suffered back pain it is important to ensure your bag is comfortable. You should use a backpack for back pain that has an integrated sternum strap for added comfort.
Price
When it comes to value for the money, you may not want to go with the cheapest option you find. You want a bag that can sustain your abuse and that often has a price tag. Be sure that you check out how durable the bag will be.
Durability
You want a bag that is going to withstand any abuse you give it. Make sure it is made of quality products. Cheap material will not last. You want to look for a bag that has a blend of materials to ensure the strength of the bag.
Functionality
The bag must be stylish and functional. No one wants to carry around an ugly bag, but no one wants a nice looking bag that is useless. Even when you find a bag that you like the way it looks, make sure you like the way it works, too.
If you are into camping, hiking, fishing, or other outdoor activities you may need a specialized bag for that. For example, a backpack for fishing may not meet the requirements for camping. So think of that in advance
If the bag does not meet your need by providing you with space and pockets you need, it is not worth your money.
Capacity
You should know what you plan to carry in your backpack so you can buy accordingly. These bags tend to be on the smaller side, but you can find bigger ones if that is what you need.
Understand your needs before you look for a sling backpack. This ensures that you pick out the correct bag for you.
If you carry a lot of items and the backpack becomes too heavy the better option would be using a wheeled backpack.
Additional features
You want a backpack that has extra storage space and features like pockets that you can access quickly.
FAQS
What is a sling backpack?
A sling backpack is a bag that has a triangular shape with only one strap that goes over the shoulder and across the front of your body. It can be tossed over one shoulder by a strap.
Are sling bags good for hiking?
Yes, they can be good for hiking if you find one that is comfortable and can hold everything you need.
Are sling bags bad for our back?
Typically, they are not bad for your back. As long as your sling bag is draped across your chest to distribute the weight properly, it should not hurt your back.
Are sling bags waterproof?
Yes, there are waterproof sling bags. Be sure to find a bag that states it is waterproof, not water-resistant. There is a difference between the two.
How big is a sling bag?
Sling bags vary in size, but in general, they tend to be smaller than average bags. You should know what you plan to carry in your sling bag so you can get the right size for your needs.
Final Verdict: Best Sling Backpacks
We have given you a list of the quality sling backpack options. We looked for options that provide enough space for everything you want to carry with you.
We considered sling bags that resist water and stand up to you carrying them every day. We looked for sling backpack options that are comfortable across your back and shoulder.
We did all the work for you and hope you enjoy what we believe are the top 11 sling backpack options that meet our standard of high quality, easy access to the pockets.
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