The best running backpacks for every kind of runner 2023

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

For when you need to carry a more substantial load, we've tested the best running bags for you Trail Running Backpack

The best running backpacks for every kind of runner 2023

The best running backpacks are the perfect piece of kit if you’re looking to add a run commute or two to your weekly mileage, and need something more substantial to lug your laptop and a change of clothes. Likewise, if you're planning on hitting the trails for more than a day, a running backpack can hold more food and extra supplies.

Looking for something more lightweight, suitable for carrying water, energy gels and a waterproof jacket? A hydration pack will probably suffice.

Here are our tried and tested favourites, at a glance. Keep scrolling for expert advice on how to choose the right pack for you, as well as our in-depth reviews.

For more information on choosing the right running bag for you, read our comprehensive guide here. In a nutshell, you’ll want to look at the straps of the bag – you’ll need one with shoulder, chest and waist straps in order to run comfortably. The shoulder straps should be padded and wide enough to distribute weight evenly (thin straps often dig in and rub), the chest strap should be able to be moved up and down (especially important for female runners) and all the straps need to be adjustable.

Secondly, take a look at the capacity of the bag. For commuting, 8-12L is normally more than enough room for all your belongings and a good starting point – don’t overpack your bag, the lighter the better.

All of the backpacks in this guide have been put through their paces by the Runner’s World editors. We’ve tested them on a series of runs: from commutes to and from the office, to weekend training runs and multi-day adventures. We’ve taken into account the fit, durability, capacity and price of each backpack to help you find one that’s right for you.

This larger-capacity pack offers impressively flexible storage and excellent versatility. It’s equally capable on long, remote run adventures, city run commutes and wild hikes. The two-litre bladder is removable, so when carrying kit trumps hydration there’s ample space for a 15-inch laptop and other essentials. A 360-degree opening and a row of small internal compartments make it easy to organise your kit. A broad harness – packed with pockets to keep your in-run essentials in easy reach – works with two adjustable sternum straps and a hip belt to reduce bounce. We also loved the ridge-padded back that boosts airflow while softening lumps and bumps.

Made for serious weekend adventures and extreme multi-day races like the Marathon Des Sables, OMM’s Phantom combines big-pack capacity with upfront race-vest accessibility. The seven-point adjustable harness spreads weight with excellent control over the fit and load. The substantial storage includes two large zippered hip pockets for mid-run essentials, two front, 750ml bottle pockets, two front mesh drop-ins for gels and snacks plus stretch mesh back pockets that extend the capacity beyond the 25 litres. There’s also a removable sleeping mat, it can take a three-litre bladder and the durable Cordura nylon offers good weather protection for your kit.

Built for moving fast over tough trail terrain, this 15-litre pack is comfortable, cleverly designed and compact. And though it won’t take larger laptops, it has plenty of run commute potential, too. Zip and roll top entry offers easy access to gear stowed in the main compartment and the roll-down closure compresses your payload when you’re carrying less. Four stretch pockets on the wide harness happily holster soft flasks or larger hard bottles. Big, elasticated back stash pockets boost convenient capacity while a ‘Z’ wire chest strap and cinch system keeps everything in place. The unique Aeroready ridged back is also brilliant for boosting back-ventilating airflow.

This bag's pluses are the weatherproofing (it’s completely waterproof, down to the zips), the reflectivity – like all Proviz kit it’s exceptionally visible in the dark, which makes it perfect for gloomy winter commutes – the durability and the very acceptable price. It is also hydration pack-compatible. On the minus side, despite the vented rear panel you'll still get a sweaty back, which means it’s not great for very long runs, and the straps tended to pinch a little when they were pulled tight for a snug fit.

Padded shoulder straps and cool mesh back combined with elegant design mean this commuter pack scores on both style and substance. Designed for women, the body and hip straps are easily adjustable and the chest band fits comfortably across most bust sizes. It’s deceptively roomy, with space for a 13-inch laptop plus toiletries and a change of clothes at a push. Subtle technical details include reflective eyelets, outside pocket for a water bottle and bungee cording to strap your jacket to the back. Plus, it comes with fastening toggles, so you won’t need to stop moving to strip off a layer. Mud splats can be easily wiped off the stylish recycled polyester exterior, leaving you to segue straight into office mode. 

Designed for women, this robust pack offers 20 litre-capacity and holds 3 litres of water in an external bladder sleeve. Its considered multiple adjustment points, from shoulder to sternum to hip, make it really comfortable whether all day on trails or commuter runs. The shoulder straps are particularly comfy, clearly designed for women, with good padding. The internal frame with its Airscape system helps heavier loads (like laptops) sit stably and comfortably, while still feeling breathable. There are multiple pockets including at the hip, making it easy to get to a phone or snack, plus external attachment points. The standard fit comes up narrow, but there’s an extended fit option for the broader-framed. 

A sturdy pack with plenty of space for daily commute needs: the tablet sleeve is perfect for keeping work documents uncrumpled. However, you need to keep weight to a minimum for on-the-run comfort since the unpadded waist/hip and chest straps are narrow and dig in if you pull them tight to minimise bounce.

The Stolt Athlete Backpack is designed specifically with commuters in mind. Featuring a roll-top design, which means you can pack loads in it – our tester managed to squeeze a pair of trainers, a work dress, underwear, make up bag, wash bag and hairbrush into the main compartment.

There’s also a separate compartment for your laptop and stationary – big enough to fit a laptop up to 16”. With detachable waist straps and a strap across the sternum (which are placed high enough so that even women can wear it comfortably without digging into your breasts), once you’re strapped in, it doesn’t budge. One of our team tested this bag on their 25km (15 mile) commute from home to the office and while it was heavy, it was surprisingly comfy, thanks to the padded back mesh panel.

It’s also water repellent – 'I got caught in about 40 minutes of rain on my cycle home, and everything in the bag remained completely dry,' said one tester. Our only gripe? While the black colour is ideal, it’s not the easiest to be seen on the road, so perhaps a reflective panel on the back wouldn’t have gone amiss in the design process. You can, however, buy a high visibility cover separately (£10).

The best Christmas gifts for triathletes

25 best yoga gifts for Christmas 2023

Shop 50% off Sweaty Betty kit

The best running socks to buy in 2023

The best RW-lab-tested running jackets

Gear up for the Lululemon Black Friday sale

21 of the best running cycling shorts

'Can't run? Here's my ultimate injury tool kit'

Everything Courtney Dauwalter wore for the UTMB

27 of the best gym bags for women

The best period pants and activewear for runners

Runner's World, Part of the Hearst UK Wellbeing Network

Runner's World participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.