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Tech EDC Backpack Size Guide: Finding Your Perfect Fit

How big should an EDC backpack be? Finding that perfect everyday carry (EDC) backpack is personal. Let’s get real. It should fit your lifestyle and meet your needs. So, whether you’re a minimalist or someone who packs everything but the kitchen sink, there’s a backpack for you. In today’s topic, Tech EDC Backpack Size Guide, I’ll help you pick the right EDC bag size and more.

What’s Your Everyday Carry?

First things first, let’s talk about what you’re carrying. Your EDC setup is crucial because it determines what size backpack you’ll need. 

Are you carrying a laptop, tablet, smartphone, charger, headphones, notebook, pens, camera, and maybe even a small drone? Or are you more of a minimalist, just needing space for a laptop, charger, and a few personal items?

Small Backpacks (15-20 Liters): For the Minimalists

A small tech EDC backpack is typically around 15-20 liters. Do you travel light? Do you carry only the essentials, like a protein bar, a notebook, a few cables, a laptop, or a charger?

Pros

  • Lightweight: No to shoulder and back straining! This one is perfect for all-day carry.
  • Better for shorter frames (shorter, smaller individuals)
  • Compact: It’s easy to throw under a desk! 
  • Quick Access: Don’t you have much patience finding your stuff in an almost bottomless pack? This one has fewer compartments.

Cons

  • Limited Space: There is not much room for extra items, extra clothes, and other extras you might need to bring home from the office, shopping trips, or travels.
  • Less Versatile: A small tech EDC pack is not ideal for bulkier items.

Best For

Choose a small EDC backpack size if you prefer a lightweight, streamlined carry. It should also be suitable for minimalists and students. 

TOP PICKS

Bellroy Classic Backpack Compact 16L

Sleek, stylish, and perfect for minimal tech carry.

Pact Everyday 15L Bag

Designed for the gym and office, but great for minimal EDC.

Medium Backpacks (21-30 Liters): The Sweet Spot

Strike a balance between capacity and size with a medium EDC backpack. Its size typically ranges from 21-30 liters. It’s the neutral choice among the three – small, medium, and large tech EDC packs.

Pros

  • Versatility: This EDC tech pack size can hold some extras besides your laptop and daily tech gear. It has room for extra clothes, lunch, a jacket, or water bottles.
  • Organization: It offers better organization for its multiple pockets and compartments. 
  • Comfort: I like my medium-sized tech EDC pack because of the better weight distribution and ergonomic design. 

Cons

  • Can Get Heavy: If you pack it to the gills, it can get a bit heavy.
  • More Bulk: Slightly bulkier than small backpacks, but still manageable.: A small tech EDC pack is not ideal for bulkier items.

Best For

Commuters, tech professionals, and those who need more space (for mom’s burritos, snacks, and a water bottle) should find this size their perfect companion.

TOP PICKS

Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L

Innovative design with customizable compartments.

26L Go Ruck GR1

Tons of open space for all your tech needs.

Large Backpacks  (31-40 Liters): The Heavy Lifters

Are you carrying a lot of gear in your daily grind or adventures? Or perhaps you’re a photographer or tech enthusiast who needs to carry a lot of stuff. Think – laptop, smartphone, power bank, phone charger, headphones, cables, Bluetooth speaker, external hard drive,  gimbal protector, extension rod,  tripod, lens pen, selfie stick, and the loooong list goes on! Seriously, this is a lot. 

Pros

  • Lots of Space: Going on a trip and needing enough space for your tech gear and their accessories? And you need a lot of it? I recommend a large tech EDC backpack.
  • Advanced Features: Often come with padded compartments, MOLLE systems, and more.
  • Durability: Usually made from tougher materials like Cordura and X-Pac fabric.

Cons

  • Heavy: Not much explanation. I mean, a large backpack packs a lot, and if you do fit in a lot of your gear, be prepared for heavy lifting. 
  • Bulky: Remember… and again, it takes up much space. It might not also fit under a desk or under a seat on a bus or in small spaces.

Best For

A large backpack, for its huge capacity, is perfect for photographers, tech enthusiasts, and those who need to carry a lot of gear.

TOP PICKS

AER Travel Pack 3 – 35L

Versatile carry-on backpack that expands up to 35L

Civic Travel Bag 35L

Designed as a carry-on travel pack but great for tech-heavy EDC.

Key Features to Look For

Now, let’s get to work. Check these features regardless of the size of the best tech EDC backpack.

1. Laptop Compartment

Pick an EDC tech bag with a dedicated, padded compartment. It must offer additional protection for your laptop and be accessible. 

2. Organization

Organize your gear! Compare backpacks with compartments, pouches, and pockets. I must say that having open and zippered pockets, elastic loops, and pen slots can be a game-changer..

3. Comfort

Do you carry your pack all day? Aside from the balanced weight distribution a backpack must offer, it should have padded straps, a breathable back panel, and a sternum strap for better weight distribution.

4. Durability

There is no compromise here. I mean, this bag is an investment. So, why invest in something that won’t last long? Look for a tech pack with ripstop nylon, X-Pac fabric, and reinforced stitching. They should ensure it can withstand daily wear and tear. I also recommend looking for water-resistant materials and zippers.

5. Accessibility

If you’re like me, I hate rummaging through my things when looking for something in my bag. That’s why you should find one with quick-access pockets for your wallet, keys, and phone. Believe me. They’re real lifesavers. Improve accessibility by finding one with a clamshell opening or a roll-top closure. 

6. Expandable Capacity

Do you need more space every now and then? I recommend backpacks featuring expandable compartments. It should give you more flexibility – all without sacrificing its compact profile. 

7. Security

Aesthetics won’t matter if your backpack lacks security features. It must keep your valuables safe. Do you use public transport or travel frequently? Look for one with hidden pockets, lockable zippers, and RFID-blocking pockets.

8. Water-Resistance

An EDC backpack with a water resistance feature resists water. However, water can still break through at a certain point. So, if you’re always in the field for work or an outdoorsy type, find a waterproof backpack that, depending on its IP rating, can be impervious to water assaults. Learn more about the IP ratings of a tech backpack in this detailed guide, Understanding IP Ratings: How Waterproof is Your Tech EDC Backpack?

Tech EDC Backpack Size Guide & Choosing the Right Backpack

In the following, I highlight the simple steps for choosing the right tech EDC pack and its size.

Step 1: Identify Your Needs

Daily Use: What are your go-to items for everyday use that should be in that bag? Make a list of them. 

Occasional Use: Do you need extra space occasionally? Consider backpacks with expandable capacity.

Special Features: How about specific features? Do you need a laptop compartment? Or are you looking for waterproof materials? Or a MOLLE system? 

Step 2: Determine the Size

After determining EDC items, it’s time to make that crucial decision—is it a small, medium, or large pack you need? Just remember to choose one that fits your needs. Because…. BIGGER DOESN’T ALWAYS MEAN BETTER.

Step 3: Check the Features

So, in a nutshell, review the primary features I’ve discussed. Then, consider your priorities. That should be clearer now – durability, comfort, organization? 

Step 4: Try It On

If it allows, try it on and feel it. Does it fit? Is it comfortable to wear? Are the compartments and pockets easy to access?

Step 5: Read Reviews

There is no better way to understand the matter at hand than to read some reviews or the pulse of the public on forums and threads like EDC backpack size Reddit. 

People have varying opinions about the right size, but again…. it all boils down to one thing: your personal style and needs. 

Still, check user reviews for an idea of how a backpack satisfies/dissatisfies them, in addition to comparing sizes. And if you’re into certain features, read user feedback as well. 

Tech EDC Backpack Size Guide: Final Thoughts

You might not get it right the first time you’re looking for that perfect EDC tech backpack. But that’s okay. Just keep testing different bags, adjust, and refine. Soon enough, you’ll find your perfect companion.  

But at the end of the day, the best EDC tech backpack makes you smile! It makes your carry more efficient, comfortable, and practical. Just right for you.  

So, whether you’re a tech geek or a minimalist, an EDC bag is waiting for you! Start the search and elevate your game! And remember – keep calm and carry on…. in style, amigo!