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Wole Femi Asaolu
- September 15, 2023
- 3 Comments
Although many most backpacks come with water bottle holder, it gets so annoying when they are either too tight or too loose to hold a regular-sized water bottle! The good thing is that I have done the research to find the best backpacks with pockets that can easily fit a good-sized water bottle.
This way, you can stay hydrated while you’re out and about, and you won’t have to worry about things getting wet or ruined because you tossed a sweaty bottle into your bag.
These are my top recommendations!
12 Best Backpack with Water Bottle Holders
Here are the 12 backpacks with water bottle holders or pockets I would recommend in 2023:
- Best Overall: Nomatic Travel Pack
- Best for Security: Travelon Antitheft Classic Backpack
- Best for Travel: Amazon Basics Laptop Backpack
- Best for Everyday use: Stubble & Co The Backpack
- Best for School Use: The North Face Borealis Backpack
- Most versatile: Thule Accent Backpack 28L Backpack
- Best Minimalist: Day Owl Laptop backpack
- Best for Work: AER Day Pack 2
- For Women: Himawari Large Diaper School Backpack
- For Men: Topo Rover Backpack
- Best for Kids: JanSport Superbreak Plus Backpack
- Best for the Outdoors: The Patagonia Black Hole
Table of Contents
Best overall: Nomatic Travel Pack
I like that the Nomatic Travel Pack is so versatile that it can be used for both daily use and short travel! Why, its full perimeter expansion zippers let you go from 20L to 30L in a snap! When you need extra space, just unzip the middle, and you’re all set for 1-3 day trips.
And here’s the icing on the cake – it has a magnetic water bottle pocket that fits bottles up to 3.5″ in diameter. This clever pocket simply expands to fit the bottle snugly and maintains its shape when not in use.
Besides that, you’ll find loads of other pockets to keep your stuff tidy – like a sunglasses case and a TSA-ready 16″ laptop sleeve that lays flat for quick checkpoint clearance. And I think it’s cool that the tech compartment is smartly suspended a couple of inches from the bag’s edge – so no worries about accidental drops or bumps!
What we also like
This big pack does not have a waist strap, but it compensates with padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and a chest strap that evenly distributes the weight.
However, a word of caution: when fully loaded, some people have found it can become quite heavy and uncomfortable to wear. So if you’ll be wearing it for long, I wouldn’t advise you to pack the bag to full capacity, unless you’re willing to splurge on a waist strap.
What we don’t like
I found that some people do not like that the bag comes with lots of similar zippers. These zippers can be confusing to use, and they tend to make noise when moved around.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the tarpaulin material used to make the bag, while sturdy, is quite sensitive and can accumulate scratches and marks over time that don’t go away or disappear. And at $299, the Nomatic bag is not cheap. However, if you value quality and thoughtful design in a backpack, the price might be justified for you.
Best for security: Travelon Antitheft Classic Backpack
If safety is one of your primary concerns, the Classic Backpack from Travelon should be your go-to bag. This bag is packed with anti-theft features like lockable zippers, RFID-blocking pockets, and slash-resistant body and straps. You’ll definitely notice if anyone tries to mess with your pack!
Despite its compact 14-liter size, travelers have been pleasantly surprised by the ample space inside. One Amazon buyer found it perfect for a two-day trip, while another successfully used it for a 10-day trip to Europe. You can easily fit essentials like a tablet, camera, sweater, phones, snacks, and even a 13″ Mac. Just keep in mind that it might not fit a chunky 15.6″ laptop.
As one of the finest backpacks with a water bottle holder, the side slip pocket is spacious and deep enough to fit any water bottle, umbrella, or small items you need quick access to. Incredibly, a traveler managed to squeeze two water bottles inside this pocket!
What we also like
The Travelon Classic earns its spot on my list of the best backpacks with a water holder for some fantastic reasons. Firstly, it flaunts a stylish design and comes in a range of sweet colors to choose from.
And that’s not all – it’s just the right size to be your airline personal item bag. Users have confirmed that it fits perfectly under the seat, adding to its convenience while traveling.
What we don’t like
I’ve come across common complaints on Amazon about the zippers not being durable, stitching issues, and the straps not being adjustable, which might make the bag not comfortable for tall folks. And even after seeing other travelers use this bag, I wouldn’t recommend the Classic backpack for travel. It’s because I think it’s quite small and can’t hold a lot of gear, not even a standard-sized laptop.
Best for travel: Amazon Basics Laptop Backpack
The AmazonBasic pack has earned a spot on my list of the best backpacks with water bottle holders, thanks to its two elastic side pockets that are just right for water bottles and umbrellas.
And guess what? Lots of other people think this bag is pretty awesome too. Over 12,000 shoppers have given it a thumbs up for travel, school, work, and even vacations here and there. So, you’re making a good choice here.
You’ll also appreciate that this well-made bag has plenty of room for all your stuff and it’s got lots of pockets to keep things tidy —something you’ll appreciate on any kind of trip. It’s got a big 32-liter capacity with four main sections and extra pockets for your books, clothes, and, of course, a separate spot for your 17-inch laptop.
What we also like
Some people have been impressed by how affordable and long-lasting this backpack is. One person mentioned that it lasted them a solid five years, and another shared that it held up perfectly for seven years of heavy use.
What we don’t like
The comfort level, according to Travel Gear Addict, is nothing spectacular. They mentioned, “When I tried it with a heavier load, cramming in multiple thick heavy books and my laptop, I found the straps to start digging into my shoulders and occasionally the cardboard in the back padding would start to bend.”
So, while the backpack does come with fairly padded shoulder straps and a back panel, you might still find it heavy to carry, especially when you have a lot of loads and utilize all the space available.
Best for Everyday Use: Stubble and Co The Backpack
This Backpack is like a trusty sidekick I would recommend for everything – whether you’re off on a short business trip, hitting the gym, heading to work, or exploring the outdoors.
Plus, it’s one of the coolest backpacks with water bottle pockets. You’ve got two side pockets – one for your bottle and the other for something like an umbrella. These pockets aren’t elastic, but I can tell you they’re made to snugly fit the most common 500ml bottles. There’s also a big 21L compartment with a padded pocket for a 16-inch laptop, and an extra outer zip pocket for your tiny stuff.
What we also like
You’ll love wearing this one! I found that it sits comfortably on your back with a soft and breathable panel, along with shoulder straps that stay in place and won’t slide off.
What we don’t like
There is only one issue I can think of in terms of less-than-ideal. And that issue is with the outside pocket. When the bag is really full, it’s not easy to use because it’s tight to put things inside. And even if you somehow manage to do it, zipping it closed can be a bit tough.
Best for School Use: The North Face Borealis Backpack
I think the Borealis backpack is a smart choice for college students because it’s lightweight, well-organized, and packed with useful features.
Kyle Scott, a reviewer at Gear Hacker, even gushed about it, mentioning that “the aesthetic is very “school bag” forward” and he likes it too much that he “wish I could go back as a college student, just for this backpack (among other things).” So, if you’re a student or a parent with a school-going child, here’s the chance to literally have the ‘dream’ backpack that combines style and functionality.
This 28-liter spacious bag has multiple compartments and pockets for your stuff, including two stretchy mesh pockets on both sides that fit wide bottles. Inside, you’ll find a special slot for a 15-inch laptop, a cushioned sleeve for a tablet, cozy pockets for your sunglasses, and a bungee system on the outside for attaching jackets or helmets.
What’s more, the backpack is crafted from tough recycled nylon and polyester, built to handle the demands of bustling college life—rushing around, hopping on buses, and carrying books, folders, and laptops. And I also like that the bag comes with a lifetime warranty, which is a great addition considering that this is from a trustworthy brand.
What we also like
The Borealis backpack is comfortable because of its FlexVent suspension system and cushioned back panel. It also has a sternum strap and a removable waist belt, so you can carry it the way you like. And you even have the option of buying a version made specially to fit women!
What we don’t like
Based on the reviews I’ve checked; some folks aren’t pleased with the new design of the Borealis backpack. They find it smaller and not as spacious as the previous model, which makes it hard to fit in all their stuff.
And even though North Face says this backpack is resistant to water and the zippers are covered for extra protection, a few buyers weren’t happy with how it fared in the rain. When there’s no rain cover or during a heavy downpour, the stuff inside the bag can get wet. This means they’re not meant for a dip in the pool, so keep that in mind kiddos.
Most versatile: Thule Accent Backpack 26L
This is a really versatile and simple backpack that’s just right for lots of different things – like going to work, getting groceries, running errands, and even having a little weekend trip! If you ever need to bring along a water bottle on any of these journeys, the Accent has your back with an expandable pocket that will fit your bottle perfectly.
Kristyne Defever from Pack Hacker agrees with me on how handy this pocket is, especially because it can fit different sizes of bottles. She said, “It’s pretty tall and fairly wide at the bottom, plus it expands with a fabric gusset and elastic at the top to hold everything from a slender Standard Mouth Hydro Flask to a Wide Mouth Nalgene with ease.”
Here’s something else I really love about this bag: it’s got so many pockets and spots to put things! Inside, there is a padded 15.6-inch laptop sleeve, a tablet sleeve for your iPad or Kindle, 2 small mesh pockets, pen holders, and a zipped mesh pocket that’s just right for your laptop or tablet charger.
What we also like
This bag is super comfy when you wear it. The shoulder straps are cushioned and it has a sternum strap, so you can carry heavy stuff over long distances without feeling like you’re lugging around a ton of bricks on your back or shoulders!
And there’s lots of padding in the important spots, like the back panel and the handle you grab. The Accent also has compression straps on the bottom for carrying jackets or blankets, and a luggage strap on the back that you can slide onto the handle of a rolling suitcase.
What we don’t like
So, here’s the thing: this bag is about 12.2 inches wide, 10.2 inches long, and 20.1 inches tall. It can hold up to 28 liters of stuff. But when it’s all packed up, it might seem really big on someone who’s not that tall.
Adrienne So from Wired.com tested this bag and found that it doesn’t suit her height. She mentioned, “It measures 20.1 inches tall, which is just a little too tall for my 5’2″ frame. A smaller size would fit better on someone who is as short as I am.”
Best Minimalist: Day Owl Laptop Backpack
Sophisticated and eco-friendly, the Day Owl backpack is a great catch for minimalists. It has a clean style that works well in any situation.
Inside, there’s more space than you’d think. This 21-liter backpack has 5 hidden pockets: a top fleeced line pocket, a side pocket, a front panel pocket, and a special pocket with padding for a 16-inch laptop, all cleverly hidden.
And the cool thing about the water bottle pocket is that it’s hidden, and fits even a 750 mL bottle of water (or wine!). So, your bottle or umbrella won’t fall out whenever you bend over. Plus, the pocket it’s water-resistant, so no spills or leaks will mess up your bag.
A happy customer loved the water bottle sleeve and said, “The water bottle pocket is my favorite part because I often drop things and when I bend over to pick them up, my water bottle falls out of the external pocket. Not anymore!”
What we also like
If you care about backpacks that are good for the environment and still well-made, you’ll like this one. It’s created from 25 recycled post-consumer plastic bottles, and it has water-resistant neoprene with YKK zippers.
Measuring 12″ x 5″ x 17″, this bag is the right size for carrying onto planes, and you can use it as your personal item bag. And it even has a luggage sleeve to attach it to your rolling suitcase, so you can move around easily.
What we don’t like
I checked the brand’s website and noticed customer reviews complaining that the shoulder straps are not very comfortable and can’t be adjusted easily. They also mentioned that the fabric of the bag gets easily marked.
One person shared that the backpack didn’t fit them well, saying, “I’m 5’4” and the back pack was too heavy (over 2 pounds), and the straps could not be tightened up enough for my small frame.” Another individual, who is 5’3″, mentioned they wished the straps were more adjustable, as even on the tightest setting, the backpack hung too low on them.
Best for Work: AER Day Pack 2
For techies who want top-notch protection and organization, this pack is perfect if you want an everyday bag to transport your electronics to work or during business trips.
It’s a handy laptop backpack that comes with a nicely cushioned compartment that can store a 16-inch laptop. The compartment even has a false bottom to shield your tech from accidental drops.
What’s more, there are pockets and slots to help you keep your stuff neatly organized – whether it’s your mouse, cables, headphones, flash drive, or stationery. And yes, there’s a pocket for your water bottle too (although it’s not big enough to fit large bottles). I however love that the water bottle pocket collapses when not in use.
Customers have praised its sleek and simple design which makes this bag perfect for office and city commuting. One person mentioned that “this bag looks professional, and does not give an “intern” vibe that some bags give adults.” Another user raved, “This is the best workbag ever. I use it in the metro and going to work. I carry a 13-inch laptop and a jacket. Amazing!”
What we also like
Wearing this bag is comfy, even when it’s filled up. The straps on the shoulders are cushioned, the back has a breathable panel, and there’s a nice sternum strap across your chest for more comfort and steadiness. Plus, it stands up on its own and can slip onto a luggage handle easily.
What we don’t like
This bag isn’t meant for hauling a ton of stuff. With its size of 14.8 liters, it works well for day trips or daily commutes. However, it’s not spacious enough for extended travel or days when you have lots of gear, or heavy loads to carry.
In fact, a particular commuter wished this Day Pack 2 were bigger, saying, “It is my daily backpack to office. It’s a great backpack to pack all my stuff including my laptop into it. However, if I further put my windbreaker jacket and a bottle of water inside, it would become too packy. It would be perfect if it’s a bit bigger.”
For Women: Himawari Laptop Backpack
The Himawari backpack has got over 21,000 people users on Amazon leaving raving five-star reviews, a sign that the bag is reliable, which is why I’ve included it in my list of best backpack with water bottle pockets.
This compact bag has two side water bottle pockets that grip your bottles firmly and snugly. On top of that, the bag offers a wide opening with a designated sleeve for a 13” laptop, along with various internal and four external pockets for easy access to your essentials.
What’s even more impressive is that its style and durability have received high praise from buyers. This sleek bag is constructed with durable and scratch-resistant nylon fabric, reinforced edges, and a steel frame, all contributing to its ability to retain its shape over time.
A user even shared that the backpack lasted them three years of heavy use as a book bag, without a single rip or issue. Another folk mentioned using the backpack for over 2 years— even using it for work five days a week— and it remains in excellent condition.
What we also like
This backpack is a steal – it’s adorable and affordable, which is always a win-win in my book. What’s even better is its versatility – you can either sling it over your shoulder like a backpack or hold it like a purse using the top straps. Moreover, it comes with handy modern features like a USB port for charging while you’re on the move.
What we don’t like
If you have your laptop in the bag, it might not feel very comfy to wear because you’ll sense the large flat part of the laptop against your back. And some said the straps are too short, which makes it uncomfortable to wear if you’re tall. Some folks even mentioned that the bag isn’t very sturdy and doesn’t seem to be something you can expect to last for a very long time.
For Men: Topo Rover Backpack
The Topo Rover is a top choice for men looking for backpacks with water bottle holders. It’s got two stretchy side pockets for water bottles – one on each side – and they’re wide enough to fit any size of water bottle you prefer. I especially like that these pockets can expand to fit even larger bottles.
Inside this roomy 20-liter main compartment, there’s a cushioned sleeve that fits most 15-inch laptops, and plenty of smaller pockets to keep your things organized. This backpack is also tough and water-resistant, making it reliable for various situations.
Wondering how much it can carry? Well, it’s spacious but not bulky, making it great for everyday use and travel. A traveler who has used it shared their experience: “I use it for air travel and it can hold 2 days of clothes which includes 2 pairs of jeans. I can also fit my 11inch iPad the the inside pocket along with noise canceling headphones and a full sized wallet. The side pockets can hold full sized water bottles on each side. All of this space and it still qualifies as a personal item and can fit under the seat in front on an airplane.”
What we also like
The Topo Design Classic is built tough with a 1000D recycled nylon base and a water-resistant exterior, with YKK zippers that make sure everything stays secure. These materials are really strong and can handle the demands of city commutes, outdoor adventures, and whatever else you throw at the bag.
Moreover, I appreciate the relaxed and vintage style of the pack, especially the leather details. It looks great on the trail and even in town. Plus, there’s a wide range of fun colors to choose from!
What we don’t like
The main part of this backpack has two ways to close it: a buckle and a drawstring. Some people find this setup a bit tricky to get access to their stuff. Tom Wahlin from Pack Hacker doesn’t like this design either. He mentioned in a review that the drawstring can be a bit awkward to handle. He said, “The cinch closure doesn’t close completely. Even when you pull it as tight as possible there will be a small opening. So, just be careful putting smaller items inside this compartment.”
Best for Kids: JanSport Superbreak Plus Backpack
Aside from being downright adorable, the JanSport Superbreak pack is a well-designed bag for kids. So, if you’re on the hunt for a sturdy backpack to carry all your child’s school essentials (those textbooks seem to get heavier every year!), this bag is up to the task.
It offers ample space, featuring a 15” laptop compartment, a front pocket, and a large main compartment that easily holds notebooks, folders, books, and maybe even a lunchbox all at once.
Plus, it’s a top choice for backpacks with water bottle holders. The bag comes with a side pocket designed specifically to store a water bottle. These pockets make it easy for your teens to arrange everything just the way they like – because let’s face it, parents simply never seem to get it right.
What we also like
This tough and water-resistant bag from Jansport is available in more than 40 patterns. This means your child can pick their favorite design and avoid the “oh no, I wanted purple!” situation.
And really I like that it’s made for comfort and support. The adjustable padded straps and padded back ensure that even young kids can use it comfortably without feeling weighed down by a heavy backpack.
What we don’t like
Some parents have expressed concerns about the laptop sleeve in the backpack, noting that it lacks sufficient padding to provide optimal protection for devices.
For instance, one parent mentioned, “My son’s school requires a fully padded laptop sleeve for the school owned devices. This is only padded on one side. The website is deceptive because it says ‘15″ padded laptop sleeve’.” Another parent mentioned their dissatisfaction with the bag, stating that it offers “barely any more protection.” They even had to purchase a separate laptop case to use with the backpack.
Best for the Outdoors: The Patagonia Black Hole
I particularly love how versatile the Black Hole Pack is. It’s just the right size at 25 liters, not too big or too small. This makes it great for everyday stuff, outdoor adventures, and traveling.
And of course, it’s my top recommendation for the best backpacks with water holder because of the two stretchy pockets that can fit all sorts of bottles. Even larger bottle! Sara Coughlin from SELF magazine liked them too. She remarked, “Backpack side pockets often fall short for big bottles, but the Black Hole’s stretchy mesh pockets can handle even my large container.“
On top of that, the backpack is hydration compatible and can hold a 15” laptop. Plus, there’s also a roomy main compartment with organizational pockets, and a front thingy (they call it a daisy chain) to attach stuff when you’re on the go.
What we also like
Made from tough and water-resistant recycled materials, this is a fantastic travel backpack with a water bottle holder that you’ll cherish and rely on for years to come. The best part? This Patagonia pack bag is backed by a lifetime warranty and a repair program, so you’re covered for the long haul.
Again, Sara Coughlin, who has firsthand experience with this backpack, echoes my sentiments about its durability. She shared, “I have put this bag through the wringer over the last few years. I’ve worn it through the rain, squished it inside crash pads, dragged it over boulders, and thrown it down rocky inclines.” Yet, she was surprised that this bag is “holding up even under my rough treatment? Again, yes.”
What we don’t like
It pains me to say it, but the Patagonia Black Hole has its flaws. First off, it’s not the comfiest option. There’s not a lot of airflow in the back panel to keep you from getting sweaty, and the bag doesn’t come with a hip belt which could help distribute weight. A traveler even pointed this out, saying, “Also use it when we go on day hikes. This is where I really wish it had a hip belt. A hip belt would be game changing. My shoulders definitely feel the weight of the bag a couple miles in.”
The second reason and this is more of a personal preference, I wish the bag didn’t spot such a sporty and rugged appearance, and I imagine that it might not be considered by some people. But, you know what they say, different folks, different strokes, so who knows, you might end up liking it looks.
FAQs
How do you carry a water bottle in a backpack?
The easiest way to carry a water bottle is to place it in a pocket or section of your backpack made just for holding water bottles. These pockets keep the bottle safe and make it easy to grab for staying hydrated on the go. Just make sure the bottle is standing upright and snug inside the pocket.
How do you attach a water bottle to a school backpack?
What is an aqua clip?
An aqua clip is a small device or accessory that allows you to attach or clip your water bottle to your backpack straps or belt. People often use it to easily carry a water bottle without using their hands when they’re walking around.
How do you carry a water bottle while walking?
Is it OK to carry a laptop in a backpack?
Yes, it is perfectly fine to carry a laptop in a backpack. Just make sure the pack has a padded compartment specifically designed to protect the laptop from bumps and shocks.
Bottom Line
There you go – the top 12 travel backpacks with water bottle sleeves or pockets. In this article, I’ve eased your search by providing you with these highly-rated backpacks in the market.
Do you agree with my list? Have you used any of these backpacks and what is your experience with any of them? Let’s trash it out in the comments!
Why You Should Trust Travelccessories
If you’re looking for trustworthy guidance on travel accessories, you can count on Travelccessories. Femi, an expert in travel gear, and our team have put together a comprehensive review that draws on our hands-on testing, extensive research on reputable brands, careful examination of product manuals and customer feedback, and evaluation of numerous luggage models.
We specifically looked for bags with robust construction, exceptional features, and high ratings from real users. And most importantly, our team consists of experts who do not accept payment for reviews and are committed to providing honest and thorough information to help you make informed decisions when choosing the right luggage.
Also, this article is not sponsored in any way by any company. These products have been independently selected by myself and my team. And the only thing I receive is a small commission from our affiliate program if you buy any of them through the links and buttons on this page. It doesn’t cost you a penny. But it really helps me out as this money goes to paying for maintaining the website, editing software, my time, team and everything else that goes into preparing this post.
3 thoughts on “Top 12 Backpacks with Water Bottle Holder to Help You Stay Hydrated on the Go”
The Black Hole backpack from Patagonia is a winner just because of the name, haha. They give the impression that you can just throw anything into it and it will all fit!
I have a two-litre stainless steel water bottle and it does not fit into so many of these smaller bags. believe me, I’ve tried to get friends to carry it in their bags and it just doesn’t fit (or maybe they pretended it didn’t fit so they wouldn’t have to carry the extra weight…..can’t blame them for that!
You mentioned the price is quite steep (as is most stuff from Patagonia, but it is a reliable brand.)
The Aer Day Pack 2 is also a great looking bag with many great features. I had better compare them both when I’m ready to buy.
Thanks for the information.
Hi Femi,
I love this post. I am getting the Topo backpack for the summer.
Here in London if the weather is going to be like it was last year then I need as much water as I can get and I am going to need a bottle holder and other good compartments. The backpack looks pretty cool aswell 🙂
I will let you know how I get on with this backpack and how well it serves me.
Thank you for sharing and keep up the great work.
All the best,
Tom
Hey, Femi!
Thank you for putting together such a lovely collection of Backpacks.
My personal favorite is the Himawari Laptop Backpack. And even though it may not be the best laptop bag (as you suggested), it seems durable and versatile for my needs. The fact that is water and scratch resistant, gives me additional reassurance and appeal.
It will be a perfect addition to my busy lifestyle!
Wishing you best,
Boriana