Each of us has our own sets of essentials that we need to bring with us on our everyday journey. From your mobile phone and power bank to house keys, car keys, IDs, and cash, there is just too much stuff that you need to bring that they simply won’t fit in your pants’ pocket. As such, we invest in a good backpack.
Thankfully, the market offers a wide range of options when it comes to backpacks. If you are trying to find the best of the best Columbia backpacks that are out on the market right now, there’s no need to scour the internet. Our team of experts have already done the hard work and narrowed down the options for you.
Below, we are going to feature 8 of the most well-loved backpacks designed by Columbia. With each review, you will realize that they are indeed the best everyday companion you could ask for.
The 8 Best Columbia Backpacks Reviewied
Here are the 8 best Columbia backpacks reviewed with their features and specifications:
1. Columbia Carson Pass Backpack Diaper Bag
The first Columbia backpack we are going to feature is designed specifically with new parents in mind. Unlike a regular backpack, this is a diaper bag, but what sets it apart from bags in the same category is that it doesn’t look like a diaper bag at all.
The Columbia Carson Pass Backpack is available in two color options. The first is black with cool blue accents, and the other is rust with black and gray features.
Features
The main material used in the construction of this diaper bag is polyester. Because of this, you can expect that the colors would stay vibrant for years to come. Polyester is also a low-cost material, which makes this backpack reasonably priced as well.
Inside the main compartment, you will find several pockets to help you stay organized. There is also a special pocket where you can keep your child’s pacifier. In there, you’d also find a bottle pocket that boasts a Therma-Flect radiant barrier wherein you can store your kid’s feeding bottle.
Among the essentials of any diaper bag is a change mat, and this backpack comes with one. This mat is padded and portable and has an Ultra Safe surface that is easy to wipe clean. While the main compartment stores your baby’s things, the secondary pocket is designed for you. It features a pocket that is elasticized and padded to keep your gadgets and other valuables safe.
The bag’s exterior also doesn’t disappoint, as it features two zippered pockets and two mesh pockets. The padded back of this backpack makes carrying this bag a breeze. Add to that the adjustable straps with reflective stitching and mesh panels, and you’ve got yourself a backpack that is worth investing in.
Pros:
- Multiple storage pockets
- Reasonably priced
- Has protection against stains and odors
- Meets CPSC and FDA safety requirements
- Comes with a change mat
Cons:
- Not machine-washable
- May be too small for some
2. Columbia Summit Rush Backpack Diaper Bag
Similar to the first backpack we featured, the Columbia Summit Rush Backpack is also a diaper bag that doesn’t look like one. As such, you can easily pair it with your everyday clothes, without you looking like a nanny on call.
Features
Again, like most other backpacks, this is also made of polyester. This material is known for being lightweight and durable, a perfect combination you’d want in any bag. For hassle-free diaper changes, this backpack comes with a padded change mat designed with Microban. This means that you can wipe the surface clean with ease.
The main compartment features a wide opening, allowing you easy access to the contents. What any new parent wishes for is for the baby’s things to stay organized, and this backpack would allow you to do just that. The main compartment is designed with multiple pockets where you can put your little one’s essentials. It even has two thermal pockets to hold bottles.
With your convenience in mind, this backpack has been designed with a padded back. You also get to enjoy the comforts that the adjustable straps bring. For easy walks out in the park, you can attach this backpack to your child’s stroller using the built-in attachment clips.
You can find this backpack available in two colors, too, which are gray with black and white features, and navy with black and orange accents. Both are perfect for either the mother or father, so both parents can use this bag.
Pros:
- Comes with two side pockets
- Comfortable to carry
- Fits a lot of stuff
- The mat comes with a pocket
- Made using hard-wearing materials
Cons:
- Not enough smaller pockets
- Interior fabric is too dark
3. Columbia PFG Roll Caster Insulated Backpack
A relaxing day spent outdoors under the heat of the sun can quickly turn into a disaster if you forget to hydrate. And what better way is there to hydrate than having a refreshingly cool drink? For that, you need an insulated backpack, such as the PFG Roll Caster Backpack from Columbia.
Features
This insulated backpack cooler can hold a whopping 30 cans of your chosen drink, enough to give everyone in the family a cool refreshment. Thanks to the ThermaCool insulation on this backpack, your drinks will stay cool for longer. It also features a Therma-Flect barrier, which is designed to reflect heat.
Aside from the insulated main compartment, you also get multiple exterior pockets where you can keep your other essentials. The gear straps also allow you to carry more stuff, such as towels, keys, or your frisbee! You will find that the exterior also features SlimeTech technology, which makes the material durable and resistant to muck, goo, and gunk.
If you’re worried about leaks, don’t. This backpack has a leak-proof lining that also comes with Microban. With this combination, you can be sure that stains and odors are kept at bay. This feature also makes this backpack easier to clean compared to its counterparts.
Lastly, similar to other Columbia backpacks we have featured so far, the PFG Roll Caster also has a padded back for your comfort. This comes with mesh panels that allow for better air ventilation. Since what you’d probably be carrying is heavy, the straps are padded and adjustable, too.
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Easy to clean
- Keeps food or drinks cool for hours
- Comfortable to carry
- Distributes weight evenly
Cons:
- No chest or waist strap
- Limited color options
4. Columbia TAMOLITCH Day Pack Backpack
For everyday commutes to school or work, this Columbia TAMOLITCH Backpack would be a great choice. It features a rather simple yet functional design that you can easily match with your everyday wear. It comes in a nice blue color, too, which is a color that is suitable for both youngsters and professionals alike.
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Features
This backpack is proudly made of 600D 82T polyester, so you can be sure that it will stand strong against wear and tear. This material is also known for being resistant to fading, which means that you can trust the vibrant color to stay as it is for years to come.
Having a backpack that is comfortable to carry is very important if you’re planning on using it every single day. Thankfully, the TAMOLITCH Backpack has been designed exactly as such. The back panel features air mesh for ventilation, and it is also equipped with PE board for added support. The shoulder straps are also padded and contoured, as well as feature mesh to allow breathability.
No products found.In order to keep your laptop safe during travel, this backpack features a special padded sleeve. It also has a soft-lined sleeve to keep your tablet or other gadgets. You will find two electronics pockets on the front compartment, as well as a slot pocket and several small ones to hold up to three pens.
Staying hydrated throughout the day is important, and Columbia understands this. For this reason, this backpack features two side pockets to keep your water bottles. You can also use one to hold your umbrella.
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Lightweight
- Comes with plenty of compartments
- Just the right size
- Perfect for school or work
Cons:
- Poor zipper quality
- Limited color choices
5. Columbia Circuit Breaker Backpack Daypack
If you think that the TAMOLITCH Backpack is not for you, perhaps this second daypack might meet your requirements. Like the first one, it comes in a beautiful blue color, though this one features black accents. This could be a great option for both students and office workers.
Features
All in all, the Circuit Breaker backpack measures 20 inches by 13 inches by 8.75 inches, making it big enough for students and professionals alike. It features a tricot-lined sleeve that is bottom-padded and can fit up to a 17-inch laptop. What’s great about this sleeve is that you can access it exclusively, so you won’t need to mix your laptop in with your other stuff.
The fabric used is polyester with Omni-Shield technology. This is known to resist stains effectively, as well as make the backpack rain-resistant. In addition to that, the backpack also boasts Techlite, which is a material that absorbs impact and provides excellent cushioning.
Among the most important things about buying a backpack is making sure that it is comfortable to carry. This one has a back panel that is ventilated, so you won’t need to worry about sweating through it during hot days. Lastly, it also comes with two side pockets to carry your water bottle and your umbrella.
Pros:
- Comes with many pockets
- Can fit a lot of everyday stuff
- Designed with hip/waist straps
- Lasts for years
- Made of durable materials
Cons:
- Only comes in limited colors
- Has a tight opening
6. Columbia Silver Ridge 20L Backpack
For individuals who live an active lifestyle, a backpack is an essential part of their gear. When it comes to choosing one, they make sure that it comes with a pocket to hold their water bottle. Columbia takes that into another level in the Silver Ridge backpack.
Features
At first glance, you will think that the Silver Ridge backpack is just your normal daypack, but in reality, it is more than that. This backpack is hydration compatible; it has a two-liter hydration pocket inside the main compartment that is designed to hold your drink.
With this, you can be sure that you won’t run out of clean water to keep you hydrated. It even has two stretchable side pockets that can also hold your extra water bottles.
Similar to other Columbia backpacks we featured thus far, the fabric used in this one features Omni-Shield technology, making it water-repellent. The shoulder straps also boast Techlite to provide advanced cushioning. Add to that the Air mesh padded back panel, and you’ve got a backpack that is comfortable to carry even for hours on end.
This backpack has a front pocket that is zippered to house your valuables and keep them secure. Inside is an organizer compartment that features a key fob and a zippered mesh pocket.
Pros:
- Designed with adjustable side compression system
- Comes with waist and chest straps
- Distributes weight evenly
- Made using strong materials
- Does not fade or stain easily
Cons:
- Terrible zippers
- Limited color choices
- More expensive than others
7. Columbia Northport Day Pack Backpack
If the previous option proved to be too expensive for you, we’ve got another Columbia backpack that can easily fit your budget. What’s great about this is that it is specially designed to be an everyday backpack, so you can be sure that it will last a long time.
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Features
The Columbia Northport Backpack measures 18.8 inches by 12.3 inches by 6.3 inches and has a total storage capacity of a little more than 28 liters. This means that, with it, you can easily carry your everyday essentials, including your laptop, a change of clothes, notebooks, gadgets, and more.
In fact, this backpack’s main compartment has a special padded sleeve to keep your laptop or tablet safe from scratches and bumps. This large main compartment also comes with smaller pockets inside to help keep your stuff stay organized. It also has a carabiner clip so that you can safeguard your keys or other important items.
No products found.If you’re worried about rains soaking your stuff, don’t. With the Omni-Shield technology, you can be sure that this backpack can protect your things from being wet. This is also designed to resist stains, so it is perfect for youngsters and their messes, as well.
For your comfort, the entire back panel is padded. What’s more, the shoulder straps are contoured and padded, as well as features Air mesh for better ventilation. There are also two mesh side pockets for storing water bottles.
Pros:
- Available in different colors and patterns
- Great value for money
- Lightweight
- Does not fade easily
- Resists stains
Cons:
- No waist or chest straps
- The bottom part is not padded
8. Columbia Sun Pass Day Pack Backpack
If we’re being honest, we actually found the Northport backpack to be rather basic when it comes to its overall look. If you are someone who is looking for more style, then perhaps the Sun Pass backpack is what you’re looking for. This is also a Columbia product, so you can rest assured of its quality.
Features
What we like the most about this backpack is that it looks stylish yet simple at the same time, making it a great everyday backpack. It is available in four different colors and patterns, so you can easily find the one that suits your personality and style.
This backpack is a little bit smaller than the previous one, measuring only 16.2 inches by 12.3 inches by 5 inches. Overall, it can carry up to 24.3 liters of stuff. For that same reason, it is also very lightweight at only 0.8 pounds.
Like any great everyday backpack, this comes with a padded laptop sleeve. However, Columbia decided to go the extra mile and included a soft-line sleeve for your tablet, as well. Inside are compartments to keep your stuff organized, and it also has two small pockets on the front for your valuables.
The shoulder straps on this backpack are padded to allow you to carry this bag without any discomfort even after extended periods. The back panel is also fully padded for additional comfort. This is also equipped with Omni-Shield technology so as to resist stains and rains.
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Helps you stay organized
- Has enough pockets
- Keeps valuables safe
- Great value for money
Cons:
- Not true to color
- May be too small for some
Information about the Columbia Brand
Since 1938, Columbia has been a trusted brand that delivers innovative outdoor gear and accessories. With more than 80 years in the business, you can be sure that their products are top-notch.
Among their proud creations are footwear, outdoor apparel, and, of course, backpacks. With every product they release, you can guarantee that you’re getting a quality product that will last for years.
You can find Columbia products in thousands of stores across several countries. However, the brand is based in the great Pacific Northwest, which features rugged coastlines, majestic forests, and wide-open spaces. This is where their experts get the inspiration to create products that are designed for active individuals.
What Things to Look for When Buying a Columbia Backpack
Choosing a backpack, especially one that you plan on using every day, requires you to think of many factors to ensure that it would match your needs and preferences. If you’re unsure of which backpack to choose, we’ve got your back.
Below, we list the most important considerations to keep in mind when choosing a backpack.
Comfort
First and foremost, you’d want to think of your comfort. After all, if the backpack you choose hurts your shoulders or back or is generally not comfortable to carry, then you’d probably not use it that often.
For this, look at the back panel, the shoulder straps, and the padding. There are also some that come with chest and/or waist straps to distribute weight evenly, which is important if you’re carrying heavy loads.
Durability
Next, check the durability of the backpack. This will ensure that you are spending your money only on something that would last you a long time. In checking for durability, look at what the backpack is made of. Those made of nylon and YKK-grade zippers are the best choice. You can also go for polyester, which is known to resist stains and fading.
Aside from the materials use, you might also want to check how the backpack was made. The shoulder straps are the first ones to give, so go for a backpack with straps secured with double stitches.
Content Protection
Obviously, you’d want your backpack to be able to protect your belongings. For this, you want to make sure that it features padding, especially if you are going to carry a laptop, tablet, or any other gadget. It would also be wise to choose one that has some level of water resistance to keep your stuff safe from rains.
Size
Size is yet another important consideration. You will be able to discern the size of the backpack that you need if you know what you’re going to use it for. Again, this is where knowing your needs would come in.
The backpack you choose has to be big enough to fit your everyday stuff. More than that, it should also match the length of your torso as well as the size of your hips. In this way, carrying the backpack wouldn’t be too hard because it is proportional to your body.
Organization
If you are a busy person, you probably have loads of stuff that you need to carry every single day. It is very important that you keep them organized, and a good backpack can help you do just that.
There are backpacks that come with multiple compartments, allowing you to store your belongings in their designated place. In this way, it would be easier to access them as compared to having a backpack with just one big compartment.
Having multiple compartments also means that your stuff won’t get jumbled around as you walk or run. As such, the weight of the backpack is also distributed evenly throughout your back.
Style
Choosing a backpack also means choosing a style that would match your personality. Look for one that is both stylish and functional. In this way, you won’t have to settle for one.
You’d also want to check if the backpack you’re choosing is versatile enough that you can use for work as well as for going to the gym, on hikes, or a weekend stroll at the mall.
Budget
As with any purchase, you also want to consider your budget. Make sure that you choose one that is from a trusted brand. Look at the price tag and check if it matches the overall quality of the backpack, the materials used, the design, the functionality, and the craftsmanship.
Simple backpacks can cost as low as $30, while you can also find backpacks that are priced as high as $1,500. If you’ve got limited money to spare, do not compromise on the quality just so you can buy a cheaper one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of backpacks?
As you may have realized from the Columbia backpacks we have featured today, you will find different types of backpacks on the market. There are ones that are designed for new parents called diaper bags, and there are others that feature hydration packs where you can store your drink.
Aside from those two, you can also find daypacks, large overnight backpacks, cycling backpacks, dry packs, and more. The type you choose depends on your personal needs and the activity you plan on doing.
Why choose a backpack over any other bag?
A backpack, as the name suggests, is designed to be carried on the back. As such, the weight is distributed evenly on both shoulders, as well as the hips. Carrying a bag this way means that you can easily carry it for extended periods.
Is it bad to carry a backpack on one shoulder?
Again, this relates to the previous question in that backpacks are meant to distribute the weight to both shoulders. If you carry your backpack on just one shoulder, especially if it’s filled with a heavy load, you’d probably then lean to one side in order to offset the weight. In turn, this could lean to poor posture.
What is the use of air mesh in backpacks?
As mentioned earlier, air mesh in backpacks is added so as to promote better ventilation. Mesh is consists of small holes that allow air to pass between your body and your backpack, thus making it breathable.
Can you wash a backpack in a machine?
With most models, the answer would probably be yes, especially if the bag is made of polyester, canvas, cotton, or nylon. However, if your backpack is made of leather or has leather parts, we don’t recommend washing it in the washing machine. Instead, check the user manual or contact the manufacturer to learn about proper care and maintenance.
Colombia Backpack Review – Conclusion
If you ask us, the best Columbia backpacks are those that meet your specific needs and preferences. The backpack you choose should match your style as well as give you comfort and the security that it can protect your belongings from the elements. These are exactly what the Columbia backpacks we featured offer and more.
In case you didn’t find the backpack for you from the list we have shared above, you can always visit your local store to look for one. After all, you are now more than knowledgeable about the factors to consider when looking for one. Good luck!
