
Best Waxed Canvas Backpacks in 2022 – Classy & Functional
Waxed canvas, a cotton canvas that’s been permeated with wax or oil, is one of the world’s oldest fabrics. The idea for it came from 19-century mariners who noticed that their sails caught the wind better when they were wet. But wet sails are heavy, so they came up with the idea of curing the sailcloth. That way, the water could stay on the surface without soaking in. They began by rubbing linseed oil on the fabric. The idea caught on, and someone along the way started making waterproof clothing for sailors.
At A Glance:
- Duluth Delux Rolltop ScoutBest for Looks and Style
- SUVOM Vintage Canvas BackpackBest for Durability
- Kemy's Waxed Canvas BackpackBest for Versatility
- Mwatcher Waxed Canvas and Leather BackpackBest Value
In our day and age, manufacturers don’t rub wax or oil onto the canvas. Instead, they embed it into the fibers of the fabric. The result? A durable, waterproof, or at the least a water-resistant material with a rugged, dappled look that increases with use to produce a cool vintage look. It’s used to make jackets, pants, and a variety of bags and backpacks often with leather accents. Check out our collection of the best waxed canvas backpacks.
OUR TOP PICKS
![]() | Best for Looks and Style Duluth Delux Rolltop Scout
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![]() | WUDON Travel Backpack
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![]() | VASCHY Men's Waxed Canvas Backpack
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![]() | S-ZONE Waxed Canvas Camera Backpack
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![]() | Best for Durability SUVOM Vintage Canvas Backpack
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![]() | BRASS TACKS Leathercraft Backpack
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![]() | Best for Versatility Kemy's Waxed Canvas Backpack
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No products found. | Best Value Mwatcher Waxed Canvas and Leather Backpack
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![]() | AOTIAN Waxed Canvas Sling Backpack
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![]() | Sunsomen Leather and Waxed Canvas Backpack
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Duluth Delux Rolltop Scout
The Duluth Scout is the new version of the manufacturer’s well-loved canoe pack from the late 1800s. It’s fashioned of high-quality waxed khaki canvas and leather. The backpack reflects the scoutmaster’s look with the classic rolltop, leather straps and buckles. The Duluth Delux has a slim profile, and the signature leather emblem adds a nice touch.
This version adds more leather such as a strong leather bottom for better protection with rugged use. An added side zipper gives convenient access to the main compartment. Store your valuables or frequently-used items in the outside pocket. The backpack’s total height is 22 inches and 16 inches at the tightest roll. The extra canvas length allows you to roll the pack closer to secure your gear at the desired length.
Fashioned of tough 15-ounce cotton canvas, this backpack feels solid, has a handsome look and is comfortable to carry. Use it as an overnight bag or for a long weekend. It’s compact enough for planes, trains, and buses. Made in the USA, this unisex bag for adults is a bit pricey but comes with a lifetime guarantee.
Pros
- high-quality materials
- side zipper for convenience
- lifetime guarantee
Cons
- report of protruding wire at shoulder strap attachment
WUDON Travel Backpack
The unisex WUDON travel backpack is designed for rough and rugged daily use. It’s solidly constructed of durable and waterproof waxed canvas and genuine crazy horse leather. Strong tensile stitching adds durability, and rivets and other hardware are made of rust-resistant zinc alloy.
The backpack is large and roomy with a length of 13.5 inches, a height of 18.5 inches, and a width of 6.1 inches. The WUDON’s roomy main compartment carries your apparel and can fit a large 17-inch laptop and tablets in the designated sleeve along. Three additional pockets and a hidden zippered back pocket gives you storage for water bottles, a phone, and other items. The backpack makes it easy to organize the contents.
The leather shoulder straps on the WUDON are adjustable for comfort and easy carry. Magnetic buckles give you easy access to contents and provide extra security.
Overall, the WUDUN is a durable and versatile backpack for hiking, camping, school, and travel with a stylish look. Nap and shading make it usable as a purse. No warranty is offered. Return unused for a refund for any reason.
Pros
- Strong and durable
- Versatile for multiple uses
Cons
- no warranty
- report of a jammed zipper
VASCHY Men's Waxed Canvas Backpack
The VASCHY men’s vintage waxed canvas backpack follows the manufacturer’s motto “keep things simple and neat”. Their stylish, reasonably-priced makes a great daypack for toting your essentials around town or as a backpack for school supplies. Compact at just 17.3 x 6.3 x 12.2 inches it gives you 21 liters of storage with a main compartment and a front pocket compartment.
The padded laptop pocket can hold a 15.6-inch laptop, and the main compartment has additional organizational pockets. The front pocket is suitable for keys and other smaller items. A magnetic buckle gives you easy access to contents. An anti-theft pocket is hidden close to your back. A leather cover and wide shoulder straps give it a smart look, and the cowhide and waxed canvas evolve with character over time. The backstrap is adjustable for comfort, or you can choose to carry it by the two top handles.
Overall, the VASCHY is a great bag for touring and short trips, but probably inadequate as an overnight bag or weekender. It’s a good deal for the price and comes with a one-year warranty.
Pros
- Smart and stylish looks
- has antitheft pocket near your back
- one-year warranty
Cons
- report of zipper hard to operate
- easily picks up pet fur
S-ZONE Waxed Canvas Camera Backpack
The S-Zone water-resistant waxed canvas backpack is perfect for the professional who carries a lot of tech around. The bottom compartment is specifically designed for a DSLR camera such as a Nikon or Sony. A padded camera organizer has three adjustable and removable cushions that can be divided into smaller partitions each of which can hold a standard zoom lens. Fragile items such as photographic equipment are protected. A side opening gives you easy access to your camera, and an adjustable strap on the bottom firmly holds a tripod.
The backpack’s top compartment can hold a few travel necessities such as extra clothing and a towel, or you can use it for notebooks and other job-related items. The multi-pocket design also includes a front snap pocket, two inside mesh pockets, and a side mesh pocket for a water bottle or umbrella. The laptop compartment will accommodate a 14-inch laptop.
The S-ZONE’s dimensions are 11. 8 (height) x 6.3 (width) x 16. 5 (depth) inches. It’s constructed of high-quality water-resistant waxed canvas and trimmed in durable crazy horse leather. Overall, this backpack is excellent for the avid photographer.
Pros
- protects fragile photographic equipment
- water-resistant
- multiple interior compartments
Cons
- limited space in top compartment
SUVOM Vintage Canvas Backpack
The looks and versatility of the SUVOM backpack make it suitable for multiple purposes from business to camping. It’s mainly advertised as a men’s backpack, but women will find it useful and the vintage looks fashionable and appealing. It’s crafted of thick, high-density oil waxed canvas and high-end leather with a 100 percent cotton liner. The zippers are industrial strength. The thick cotton straps contain memory foam making the SUVOM comfortable to carry even when fully packed. The drawstring design is a mixture of modern and retro.
Several practical compartments make organizing all your gear easy. The main compartment is roomy and can hold a 15.6-inch computer protected by a thickly padded sleeve. The backpack’s interior also has two slip pockets. Two side pockets on the exterior will hold water bottles or an umbrella. A zippered pocket on the front has two slip pockets. The manufacturer updated the magnetic buttons to Velcro after complaints of the metal snaps breaking off.
The backpack’s dimensions are 12.87 x 5. 07 x 17 inches and it weighs 2.64 lbs. It’s available in five subtle colors.
Overall, the SUVOM is practical and stylish for men and women. It’s highly durable and a good value for the money.
Pros
- practical and stylish
- highly versatile and durable
- multiple organizational compartments
Cons
- report of side pocket pulling loose
- report of broken zipper on first use
- reported water-resistant not waterproof
BRASS TACKS Leathercraft Backpack
The BRASS TACKS leathercraft and waxed canvas backpack is versatile enough for work or school as well as traveling. The water-resistant canvas is strong, scratch-resistant, and hard-wearing, and the crazy horse leather is vegetable-tanned. The backpack’s distressed look is aesthetically appealing and adds to its versatility. The BRASS TACKS looks as good in the office as it does in the wilderness.
The high-density cotton straps give your shoulders good support, and the backpack is comfortable to carry even when fully-loaded. A metal buckle and snap closures give you easy access to contents.
The large-capacity inner bag is padded and multi-functioning inner pockets afford neat and tidy organization. The laptop compartment holds a 15.6-inch laptop and secures with a zipper. Two open pockets hold smaller items like and ID and keys.
The backpack’s dimensions are 12.6 x 6.7 x 16 inches and it weighs 2.2 lbs.
Overall, the BRASS TACKS is durable and smart-looking, but a bit pricey compared to similar backpacks. No warranty information is listed.
Pros
- comfortable to carry
- good durability
- versatile
Cons
- no side pockets
- a bit pricy
Kemy's Waxed Canvas Backpack
Kemy’s stylish and distressed leather and waxed canvas backpack looks great on the college campus or in the office and is a practical rucksack for camping, hiking, and airline travel and accommodating enough for a weekend getaway. The heavy-oil waxed canvas is waterproof and the trim is genuine high-quality leather. Premium materials and handcraftsmanship combine to produce long-lasting durability.
Along with durability and style, the Kemy’s backpack has good functionality. Key features include a thick and protective laptop sleeve that holds a 15.6 -inch laptop, an exterior closed leather pocket on the front, and side leather pockets. The material inside the bag is 90 percent cotton. The fastening drawstring is covered by a genuine leather top flap, and everything is secured with magnetic buckles. Additional hardware is copper. Multiple compartments carry various gear from textbooks and binders to cameras and electronics accessories.
The Kemy’s is sturdy and sits comfortably on the back to keep contents secure. The shoulder straps are padded and 2.95 inches thick to help carry heavy loads comfortably.
The backpack’s dimensions are 11.8 x 5.9 x 19.7 inches. No warranty is listed. Return the item in unused condition for a full refund.
Pros
- constructed of high-quality materials
- multipurpose functionality
Cons
- magnetic buckle not functional for security
- report of side pocket rivet popping off
Mwatcher Waxed Canvas and Leather Backpack
The Mwatcher is a casual vintage look backpack good for school, business, hiking, day trips, and weekend getaways. The material is water-resistant waxed canvas and genuine cowhide leather for good durability. The wide shoulder strap is easily adjustable to disperse weight for comfort. The carrying handle is genuine leather and the hardware is vintage metal and copper.
The multiple pocket design includes an internal main pocket with a foam-padded laptop compartment and room for clothing, books, and other supplies. The interior also has two slip pockets and a wall zipper pocket for your keys, wallet, and other small accessories. External storage includes one flap front pocket and two side pockets.
The dimensions of the Mwatcher are 11.81 x 19.68 x 5.11 and it weighs 2.8lbs. No warranty or guarantee is given, but you can return the bag in unused condition for a full refund.
Pros
- roomy interior
- super comfortable straps
- good quality material
Cons
- buckle closure not fully secure
- water-resistant, not waterproof
- no warranty
AOTIAN Waxed Canvas Sling Backpack
The unisex AOTIAN is a classic sling backpack crossbody bag perfect for cycling, running, and trips to theme parks. It’s made of sturdy waxed canvas with a shoulder strap head and tail of genuine cow leather. The lining is sturdy cotton and the hardware accessories and zippers are high-grade metal. The bag is well-sewn and waterproof. The materials are supple and break in like a pair of jeans.
The AOTIAN has a strong two-layer strap and is suitable for the right or left hand. It can be carried on your chest or back. Wearing it crossbody provides good travel security.
With a capacity of 10 liters, the AOTIAN is a fun and fashionable slingback or crossbody bag that can fit a 9-inch iPad. It’s great for carrying around your everyday accessories. A zippered back pocket fits a 5.2-inch smartphone or an iPhone and a wallet. It can also hold a couple of books and a one-liter water bottle. The bag’s dimensions are 9.1 x 5.1 x 14.6 inches. No warranty information is given.
Pros
- good quality
- fun and fashionable
- good for travel security
Cons
- one report of discoloring
- doesn't replace full-size backpack
Sunsomen Leather and Waxed Canvas Backpack
The Sunsomen Backpack is advertised as a Men’s Backpack but is suitable and attractive as a Unisex bag. This backpack is popular for business, on campuses, and outdoor excursions. It’s made of encrypted wax canvas and high-quality leather. It’s durable, waterproof, and wear-resistant for confidence in rugged outdoor use. The lining is cotton, and the straps are leather. Buckles on the belt add attractiveness and safety.
For use as a laptop backpack, the 15-liter bag has a main compartment that fits a 14.6-inch laptop. No information is available as to whether the compartment has protective padding. Other interior storage includes two large pockets and a zip pocket.
The Sunsomen is sleek and simple and transfers well from the office to outdoor excursions. University students can use it for lots of gear such as books, notebooks, cameras, iPads, and iPods.
The Sunsomen’s dimensions are 30 x 12 x 43 cms. And it weighs 1.25 kgs. No warranty is offered. The backpack can be returned in unused condition for a full refund.
Pros
- fully waterproof for outdoors
- versatile for multiple uses
Cons
- can't access inside items quickly
- no warranty
What to Look for
Waxed canvas backpacks come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles and with different features. When choosing one to purchase, consider the bag’s purpose, what you’re willing to spend for quality, how comfortable it will be for your body type, and the look you’re going for.
Purpose
Consider what you’ll mainly be using your waxed canvas backpack for. Will it be for the office or school, camping or hiking, travel, or maybe a little of all of these. Or perhaps you just need something to zip around town with. If it’s for business or school, you’ll want one with a roomy and protective laptop compartment. If it’s for outdoor adventures, look for waterproof as opposed to water-resistant. If you’ll be using it as an overnight bag or weekender, opt for one with more room for clothes and less space for electronics. Most of them will accommodate at least a small laptop or iPad.
Durability
Quality goes hand-in-hand with durability. Waxed canvas is by nature quite durable. Check the reviews for notes about the quality of the leather trim, zippers, and other hardware. Purchase one that will give you the most quality and durability you can afford. Consider the manufacturers’ guarantees, warranties, and return policy.
Comfort
No one wants to carry around a backpack that’s uncomfortable. Look for features like padded and adjustable straps. Consider the backpack’s dimensions, size, and weight.
Looks and Style
Looks and style are a matter of personal taste. If you’re looking for a waxed canvas backpack, chances are you already appreciate the rugged, vintage look of it. Consider features like drawstrings, flaps, buckles, and leather trim. Choose the one that’s most appealing to you.
Our Picks
Best for Durability
Crafted of high-density oil waxed canvas, quality leather, 100 percent cotton liner, and industrial-strength zippers, the Suvon is our choice for durability.
- 【LARGE SIZE】: 12.9 inches x 5.07 inches x 17 inches, which can fits laptop up to 15.6 inches. This school backpack have suitable construction that allow you pack so much but does not look overstuffed.Perfect for men and women to go to school, business, shopping, weekend get-away, tourism, gym, hiking, biking, camping, etc.
- 【DURABLE BACKPACK】: Crazy Horse Leather + Oil Wax Canvas +100% Cotton Liner. Thick and high density Oil Wax Canvas, durable,water resistant(splash and small raindrops) and not easily deformed. The soft leather surface have disorderly wrinkles, scratches that present the style of vintage and look fashionable.
Best for Versatility
For versatility, the Kemy goes from the office to the wilderness with ease. It’s waterproof, has multiple compartments, and can fit a 15.6-inch computer.
Best for Looks and Style
We like the scoutmaster’s look of the Duluth Scout with its classic rolltop, leather straps, buckles, and signature emblem.
- LOTS OF STORAGE SPACE - Deluxe Rolltop Pack holds 13 liters up to 17 liters of your necessary things; Extra canvas length to roll your pack close to optimally secure your goods at whichever height desired. 22" total height. 16" high at the tightest roll
- FUNCTIONAL & DURABLE - Riveted leather reinforcements make Duluth Pack Deluxe Roll-Top Scout a multi-generational heirloom; Hand constructed 15 oz. canvas for durable quality and heritage "better-with-age" aesthetic
Best Value
At just over $50, the Mwatcher Travel Rucksack is durable, comfortable, and has great features for organizing your gear.
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