Best Running Backpacks & How To Choose A Running Backpack

Most people don’t even consider wearing a backpack when running. It’s understandable: the running backpack would bounce, jiggle, wiggle, and next thing you know, you aren’t wearing a backpack but back pain. 

But what if you need to carry stuff with you? Water? Phones? Or maybe you’re trying to commute on foot to minimise daily expenses but still want to save time? Can we even reconcile the two? The best running backpacks will always be a game changer.

But first, what is a running pack? Are running bags worth it? Running pack is designed specifically for runners, and yes, it’s a worthy investment. They're built for better fit, fewer bounces, and more effective runs that an average backpack won't cut it. 

Your running bag is a must-have essential to carry a first aid kit or your laptop to work, and to keep you hydrated and well-fed while you're on the move. 

How To Choose A Running Backpack

Here is our quick guide of some of the most important factors you should be considering when choosing a backpack for running. Let’s have a look:

Adjustable Straps

Adjustable straps keep your running backpack from bouncing when you move at different paces

The best running backpack is the one that fits you well. Fit can affect your performance and in some cases, cause discomfort and injuries. Painful chafing and back straining can happen if the bag awkwardly bounces up and down against your back.

To nail the perfect fit, choose backpacks with adjustable straps, including the shoulder and sternum straps. Larger bags should also come with waist straps to minimise the bounces while running.

Capacity

What size running backpack is best? To answer this question, consider how much you have to carry. Your pack should be roomy enough to stash your essential kit. 

By and large, for running short distances alone 5-10L is more than capacious, but the further you run the more space you need to accommodate your food, water, and clothes. Anything smaller than 5 would be too small, and can barely cover your phone or keys.

Multi-day ultramarathons and commuting will call for a bigger pack, normally 25L or up. For commuting packs specifically, the pack should have a dedicated room for your laptop, preferably with a protective sleeve.

Materials

On a marathon-length run, you need a backpack made to thrive in any weather condition

Think about what climate you typically run in. If you start your multi-day trail in a humid location, look for a running backpack with proper ventilation. Many brands offer extra, breathable, moisture-wicking padding that helps you have a comfy ride from start to finish.

The waterproof feature is also an important criterion if you find yourself in a heavy downpour or run somewhere near body water. Check out how water-resistant the material is and whether the seams are technically sealed to ward off the water, etc.

Compartments

In general, the more compartments you have, the better. If you can store your extra gear, gels, electrolytes, and water bottles in an organised way, you can easily access them in quick stops. External pockets and bungee cords on the front are also a plus, as you can stash extra stuff like a jacket or a pair of spare shoes. 

Utility Features

Sometimes it is a combination of available features that makes a great backpack. Many won’t single out certain must-haves when choosing a backpack but will look at every little detail in conjunction with one another to decide.

The first that comes to mind is usually the ventilation system. Most running backpacks will have this built in, but the level of ventilating might just differ.

Then there’s the hydration bladders. Some are just too small to fit the bigger bottles in, some are designed specifically for collapsible water bottles. Some don’t quite have bladders, but rather pouches from which you can drink water directly through a hose attached to the shoulder strap.

Top Picks For Running Backpacks

CABINZERO CLASSIC CROSSBODY - BEST FOR SHORT RUNS AND  ALL-DAY WEAR

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Crossbody bag doesn’t usually come to mind when people think of a running backpack (understandably, it isn’t really a backpack so to speak), but it absolutely delivers!

It is sufficiently spacious to fit everything you will need for a run or a day in the office (if you run to work without a laptop). You can throw in an iPad,  paperback book, a set of Bose noise-cancellers, cables, and a water bottle. 

Most usually find the space enough to fit a change of clothes or two. This would make great sense on super sweaty days when you want to carry extra clean, dry T-shirts to change into.

We also make sure the bag is comfortable to wear across the body. It's shown with the airflow system on the rear panel and shoulder strap, which makes it incredibly breathable whether you're on all day on trails or the run commute. One of our customers even uses it for parkour runs with his dog, crossbody style—check out how he does it here.

The straps are quick to adjust, too, in case you're swapping it with another runner or want to find a sweet spot for your body so the bag won't bounce around awkwardly, 

For easy access, the zippered front pocket is specifically designed for wallets, keys, ID documents, or anything you need to pull out in a cinch.  The zip-lock feature, similar to the toggle clasp mechanism, adds extra security for your belongings. You'll find it useful against pickpockets in some touristy areas.  There’s even an RFID blocking pocket, so you don’t have to worry about thieves!

Above anything else, you know it's a good running pack when it's not heavy (360g) for the back while on the move. 

CABIN ZERO ADV DRY - BEST FOR MULTI-DAY ADVENTURES

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You can’t beat the ADV DRY when it comes to long runs or hikes on the trails, especially where the weather is unpredictable. Attention to large and small details makes ADV DRY one of the best waterproof backpacks of our brand. 

The main layer is the 70 Denier Nylon Ripstop fabric with TPU film and a water-resistant coating of 19,000mm. In addition, the hyper lock roll top and completely taped seams also mean water can't find its way in. 

The ADV DRY also gets plenty of room and a roll-top design so you can squeeze more stuff in it. The shoulder straps are made of an air mesh system, so they won't pinch your shoulders if pulled too tight. There's also a sternum strap to ensure a bounce-free fit while you're running. 

The bag does come with bells and whistles, and we love their practicality. Our editors always use the inner pouch for their cash, cards, and documents, with an RFID system in place for extra security. 

The only gripe? There are no extra pockets on the outside of the backpack. Yet, the bungee cord on the front panel makes up for this. You can strap your jacket to the back if it's too hot, or your flip-flops or towels that you pack for your beach getaway. 

FAQs

1. Can You Run With A Laptop In A Backpack?

Yes, you can. However, commuting with a laptop can be a bit challenging. The biggest fear here is your device will break from juggling and shifting around (at least the moving parts).

The key is choosing the right backpack, and you can run as much as you want from home to work. First, choose an ultra-waterproof pack. This gives you peace of mind when running in rainy mornings. Second, search for a solid laptop compartment that keeps the device in place to minimise bouncing and potential damage. 

Your laptop should also have SSDs, which aren’t as prone to damage as the old-school HDDs. And it should not be chunky or heavy, else your back will suffer. For further protection, you can pack clothes and towels to 

2. How To Stop Backpack Bouncing When Running?

The best running backpack should fit snugly without bouncing around

There are some useful tips to stop your pack from bouncing for a more comfortable ride:

1. Adjust the Straps: Many high-quality running bags now come with adjustable straps to help runners of different sizes find the perfect fit. Don't forget to change the length of any waist or sternum straps available. They're equally useful in keeping everything in place. 
2. Pack Light: The lighter the backpack, the less likely it will bounce. So try to keep your bag as light as possible. If you're commuting, don't try to carry all the work gear on your shoulder. Instead, pack wise and keep something in the workplace to reduce the loads. The same also applies to trail runs or multi-day adventures, where loads are your worst enemy. 
3. Toss Your Average Bag and Get A Running-Specific Backpack: Running backpacks normally come with well-designed shoulder, waist, and chest straps to reduce bounce. Some brands even go the extra mile and incorporate anti-bounce in their bags, whereas others work with ergonomic design to improve the fit and reduce bounce. 

It’s All About What You Need

Is running with a backpack a good idea? We hope you have found your answer in our article. Ultimately, it’s about what you need. To find the best running backpack for yourself you must analyse all your needs then do the research and weigh all the pros and cons.

Kesley