Backpacks vs. Crossbodies: Everything You Need to Know for Your Perfect Bag

In 2021, your bag shouldn’t just carry your stuff. At Sherpani, we design bags to make you feel comfortable, secure, and stylish— whether you’re headed out for a girls trip, or sprinting to your next work meeting.

Sometimes you need to stuff your travel bag to the brim, while others you just need a bag to throw over your shoulder while you head to brunch.

Either way, you need a bag that can do it all this summer — just like you.

The question is, do you need a backpack or a crossbody bag to get the job done? And is one better than the other?

Below we walk you through the pros and cons of crossbody bags vs. travel backpacks so you can choose the best bag for your lifestyle — and personal style.

What Are Backpacks Best For?

You probably have a few backpacks in your closet already because they’re so versatile.

Backpacks are excellent for storing all your stuff while hiking, mountain biking, or heading off to work or school.

Adjustable straps and secure buckles come in handy when you’re zipping around town on a bike or motorized scooter, or if you’re running to catch the subway or light rail.

Not to mention all the storage space for work gear, travel, or packing up a picnic to share with a friend. The straps help distribute weight too, so you’ll always be comfortable when you’re on the go.

Outdoor Fun with The Quest AT

For overnights or camping trips when you just want to take one bag, you’ll have no problem packing all your favorite outfits and toiletries in this bag.

Secure zippers hold your items securely, so you can power up that hiking trail without worrying about losing anything along the way.

The Quest gives you all the comfort and organization of a backpack, plus the classic Sherpani style to show off wherever you go.

Bag Features:

  • 17 liter capacity
  • Anti-slash bottom
  • Compression straps
  • Water resistant material
  • Zipper locking system
  • Pockets inside of pockets inside of pockets
  • Fleece-lined sunglasses protector
  • 13” compatible laptop sleeve
  • Vegan
  • RFID protected

Shop the Quest AT backpack in multiple colors >

Professional Style With The Dispatch

There’s a reason why you probably bring a backpack to school or work: they can fit so much inside!

Textbooks, laptops, snacks — you name it, and you can fit it in a backpack. And with plenty of pockets, you can keep your stuff organized on those hectic work days when you need to be on the ball.

We don’t skimp on quality materials, either. We use water-resistant and durable fabric, so you can rest assured your bag will last through even the toughest days on the job.

Backpack Features:

  • 2 large interior slip pockets
  • 3-way convertible straps
  • Water resistant
  • Protective lining
  • Quick access zippers
  • 2 water bottle pockets
  • Key fob included
  • Metal frame opening
  • Compatible with 13” laptops
  • Made from all recycled materials

Get the Dispatch for work or fun at 40% off >

What Are Crossbody Bags Best For?

The best travel crossbody bags have one key feature: they keep all your belongings safe and secure no matter where you go.

When you’re traveling, it’s important to keep your stuff in front of you to discourage theft or pick-pocketing.

With a sling backpack or crossbody bag you can easily keep an eye on your stuff while you sightsee or commute on packed public transportation.

Need an ergonomic bag to alleviate back pain? Crossbody backpacks are great for comfort, too. They distribute weight evenly across your body to keep you comfy and pain-free.

Multi-task with The Sleek Esprit

The Esprit is the perfect crossbody backpack for a quick trip to the farmers market, or for packing a book and finding a shady tree to park it under for the afternoon.

The padded back is ideal for keeping you comfortable on a bike ride or hike, and the inside has just enough space for a tablet and all the essentials.

For travel, the quick-release buckle makes it easy to grab that passport if you’re rushing to your gate last minute (we’ve all been there).

Bag Features:

  • 10 liter capacity
  • Lightweight and made from recycled materials
  • Easy to clean Nylon interior
  • 2 exterior pockets with zippers
  • Padded strap
  • Quick release buckle
  • Key fob
  • Detachable key chain feature
  • Compatible with 7” tablet

Grab an Esprit sling backpack for easy wear and accessibility >

The Do-It-All Mom Bag

Bulky diaper bags are so 1990’s. If you’re a mom on the go looking for the perfect crossbody sling bag, you want all the best features like deep pockets, sturdy straps, and easy access.

Larger crossbodies make for great bags for pool days, soccer practice, and any other time when you need to stuff your bag to the brim and get the kids out the door.

Plus, they’re 100% waterproof and machine washable, so clean-up is always a breeze.

Our favorite crossbody for busy moms is the Vale Tyvek in classic black or white.

Bag Features:

  • Made with 100% recycled Tyvek fabric
  • Water resistant
  • Machine washable
  • Ultralight and tear resistant
  • 2 exterior pockets
  • Deep main compartment
  • Adjustable straps
  • Reversible configuration 

Take your Vale to the beach or stash it with all your mom essentials >

Backpack or Shoulder Bag?

When it comes to your perfect everyday bag, you can’t go wrong with either a cute backpack or stylish crossbody shoulder bag.

Both traditional backpacks and crossbody bags offer ease of movement when you’re on the go, and can distribute weight evenly to keep you comfortable even when you’re packing heavy.

We even have convertible bags so you can switch between wearing them as a crossbody and a backpack, like our uber-popular Camden.

Our bags are made to last, too, so you don’t have to worry about breaking a zipper or ripping a hole in the bottom.

For traveling, outdoorsy activities, and your busy work days you’ll have plenty of storage, security, and style with any Sherpani bag you choose.

Explore our collection of crossbodies, backpacks, and purses >

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