This page details the specific criteria we use when reviewing rolltop backpacks. Each criterion has a weight that contributes to the overall score. Learn more about how our scoring system works.

Scoring Overview

Each criterion below is weighted as a percentage of the total score. We evaluate each product on a scale of 1 to 5 for every criterion, then multiply by the weight to calculate the final rating.

Carry comfort & fit (11%)

Rolltops can feel different than clamshell packs, especially when expanded. I’m evaluating strap padding and how well they contour to your shoulders. I’m checking back panel ventilation because rolltops often use waterproof fabrics that trap sweat. I’m testing load stability since rolltops can shift if packed loosely. I’m also assessing weight distribution with tall loads because rolltops can get top-heavy when fully expanded. Comfort matters more than people expect, especially when the bag is at full capacity.

Organization & access speed (11%)

Rolltops traditionally have less organization than clamshell packs. I’m evaluating main compartment access difficulty because rolltops vary wildly in how easy they are to open. I’m checking side zip access, which is critical for on-the-go access without unrolling the top. I’m testing pocket layout for small items like keys and chargers. I’m evaluating water bottle pocket performance. Most importantly, I’m checking laptop access without unrolling because that’s a major convenience factor. Rolltops with no side access score lower automatically since you have to unroll everything to reach your gear.

Laptop & tech protection (9%)

Rolltops handle tech differently than structured packs. I’m checking for a suspended and padded laptop sleeve that keeps your device off the bottom. I’m evaluating side laptop access, which is critical for convenience since you don’t want to unroll the top every time. I’m testing the rigidity of the back panel because it protects against shifting contents. I’m also assessing protection from collapsing inward since rolltops can compress awkwardly when under-packed. Rolltops without side access often frustrate tech-focused users who need quick laptop access.

Materials & build quality (11%)

Rolltops often use specialized fabrics and hardware that differ from standard backpacks. I’m evaluating waterproof or water-resistant fabric quality since many rolltops prioritize weather protection. I’m checking RF-welded seams versus stitched seams, which matters for waterproof subcategories. I’m testing roll-top hardware durability, looking at buckles, magnetic closures and G-hooks. I’m assessing stiffness versus slouchiness because that impacts daily usability. I’m also evaluating base abrasion resistance since rolltops sit on the ground often. Rolltops often use heavier-duty materials than standard packs, and I’m reflecting that in the scoring.

Weather resistance (14%)

This is one of the top three criteria for rolltops since many buyers choose them specifically for rain performance. I’m evaluating roll-top sealing performance, checking how many rolls are needed, the stiffness of the material and whether magnets or clips hold securely. I’m testing side zipper weatherproofing since those zippers are exposed to rain. I’m checking fabric hydrostatic resistance to see how much water pressure it can handle. I’m evaluating bottom panel waterproofing because rolltops sit on wet surfaces. I’m also testing storm flap effectiveness. This is the confidence level of being able to take something out in heavy rain without worrying about your gear getting soaked.

Expandability & capacity flexibility (13%)

This is a core rolltop feature and should be one of the top scoring categories. I’m evaluating vertical expansion range to see how many liters you gain when fully expanded. I’m testing structural integrity when expanded because some rolltops sag awkwardly at full capacity. I’m checking compression when under-packed to see if it looks sloppy or maintains shape. I’m also assessing roll-top closure flexibility, looking at buckle up and down options, side clips and front clips. The best rolltops expand smoothly and compress cleanly without losing their form.

Carry options & adjustments (8%)

Most rolltops don’t use handles or trolley pass-throughs like travel packs. Instead, I’m evaluating strap adjustability and load lifters, which help distribute weight when the bag is expanded. I’m checking for a removable sternum strap since that matters for stability with tall loads. I’m testing hip belt compatibility if one is included or optional. I’m also evaluating carry handles on the side and top, but only scoring them if they’re actually useful. The question is whether you can carry this bag comfortably the way you want to use it.

Compressibility & luggage friendliness (8%)

Rolltops don’t nest inside luggage like some packs. Instead, I’m testing compressibility and luggage friendliness. I’m checking whether it packs flat when empty, which makes it easy to store or pack as a secondary bag. I’m evaluating whether boxy rolltops pack worse than soft rolltops since structure affects compressibility. I’m testing if it’s stuffable into a suitcase as a secondary bag when traveling. This is much more realistic for how people use rolltops when they need to consolidate gear.

Versatility for work, gym & travel (10%)

Rolltops have unique strengths across different use cases. I’m checking work use, evaluating laptop access and whether the clean aesthetic works in professional settings. I’m testing gym carry compatibility, especially shoebox fit since many rolltops have tall main compartments. I’m evaluating travel readiness, looking at airline carry-on size compliance and daypack functionality. I’m also checking outdoor crossover since some rolltops lean toward hiking with their weather protection and expandability. The best rolltops handle all these scenarios without major compromises.

Overall value for price (7%)

Where does this bag land on price versus what you’re actually getting? Build quality, weather performance, expandability and warranty all factor into whether it’s worth the cost. Rolltops often command premium prices for specialized materials and hardware, so I’m weighing whether those features justify the price tag.

Here are our reviews of rolltop backpacks that use these scoring criteria:

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