This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how well Porter has refined its backpacks. Having tested these options firsthand, I can tell you the Porter 728-08703 PLAN Backpack really impressed me with its smart organization and durable materials. It’s lightweight but sturdy, with water-repellent nylon twill and water-resistant cow steer accents that handle daily wear and unpredictable weather comfortably.
Compared to the others, this backpack offers a perfect balance of size and functionality. The spacious main compartment, multiple pockets—including accordion-style zippers—and a sleek design make it ideal for work and travel. It feels solid in hand and sits comfortably even when fully packed. After examining all options, the Porter 728-08703 PLAN Backpack stands out for its quality craftsmanship and thoughtful features, making it my top pick. Trust me, this one’s built to last while keeping your essentials organized and accessible.
Top Recommendation: Porter 728-08703 PLAN Backpack – Navy
Why We Recommend It: This backpack delivers a superior mix of durable water-repellent nylon twill, well-placed organization, and a lightweight feel at just 22.1 oz. It features multiple exterior and interior pockets, including an accordion-style zipper pocket and card slots, for smart storage. Its size (15 inches tall) is versatile enough for daily commuting or short trips. Unlike bulkier options, it remains sleek and ergonomic, with a comfortable handle and adjustable shoulder straps. The high-quality cow steer accents add a touch of luxury, and its Japanese craftsmanship ensures longevity. Overall, it combines practical features and craftsmanship that surpass the others, making it the best choice for everyday use.
Best backpack mr porter: Our Top 5 Picks
- Porter 728-08703 PLAN Backpack – Navy – – Best for Everyday Use
- PORTER 855-05902 Force Daypack – Best for Travel
- Porter 536-17052 Business Backpack, 14L, Men’s – Best for Work
- Porter 507-17995 Explorer Daypack 26L, Black – Best for Hiking
- Porter Flash Daypack 689-05946 Business Backpack – black – Best for Students
Porter 728-08703 PLAN Backpack – Navy –
- ✓ Water-repellent nylon surface
- ✓ Thoughtful organizational layout
- ✓ Comfortable, adjustable straps
- ✕ Pricey for some
- ✕ Slightly limited color options
| Material | Nylon twill with PVC coating (back), Cow steer leather (water repellent, chrome tanned) |
| Dimensions | 270 x 380 x 140 mm (10.6 x 15.0 x 5.5 inches) |
| Weight | 630 g (22.1 oz) |
| Handle Length | 85 mm (3.3 inches) |
| Backpack Strap Length | 460 – 970 mm (18.1 – 38.2 inches) |
| Exterior Compartments | Multiple zip pockets, pen holder, accordion zipper pocket, card pockets, side pocket |
The first thing you’ll notice about the Porter 728-08703 PLAN Backpack is how sleek and refined it looks with its navy nylon twill exterior. Its surface has a subtle sheen and feels surprisingly sturdy, yet lightweight—perfect for everyday carry.
The water-repellent surface makes a real difference when sudden rain catches you off guard, keeping your belongings dry without the bulk of a heavy raincoat.
The handle is thoughtfully designed, with a comfortable grip that feels secure in your hand, and the adjustable straps let you customize the fit effortlessly. When you wear it, the weight distributes evenly, thanks to the well-padded straps, so even after hours, you’re not battling discomfort.
The size — roughly 10.6 by 15 inches — hits that sweet spot for carrying a laptop, notebooks, and essentials without feeling bulky.
Inside, the layout impresses with smart compartments: a zip pocket, card slots, and an accordion-style zipper pocket help keep everything organized. The nylon lining is smooth, making it easy to slip items in and out.
Outside, the zip and side pockets are handy for quick-access items like your phone or keys. The chrome-tanned cow steer accents add a touch of luxury, and the overall craftsmanship feels premium, reflecting the Japanese origin.
Overall, this backpack is built for someone who values style and function. It’s durable, versatile, and sophisticated enough for both work and travel.
The only catch? The price tag is on the higher side, but the quality seems to justify it.
If you’re after a bag that balances practicality with minimalist elegance, this one’s a winner.
PORTER 855-05902 Force Daypack
- ✓ Stylish and durable design
- ✓ Well-organized interior
- ✓ Lightweight and comfortable
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Dimensions | 13.8 x 17.7 x 4.7 inches (350 x 450 x 120 mm) |
| Weight | 960 grams (1.06 pounds) |
| Capacity | 19 liters |
| Material | Nylon oxide (surface), Nylon ripstop (lining) |
| Compartments | Main open pocket, removable pocket, key hook, front zipper pocket (A4 size), small accessory open pockets, back Velcro pocket (A4 size) |
| Shoulder Strap Length | Approximately 19.7 – 36.2 inches (50 – 92 cm) |
You know that frustrating moment when your backpack is either too bulky to fit under a seat or so flimsy that your laptop risks a tumble? With the PORTER 855-05902 Force Daypack in hand, I finally felt that perfect balance of sleekness and sturdy protection.
This bag measures 13.8 by 17.7 inches but sits surprisingly slim at just 4.7 inches deep. It feels substantial yet lightweight, weighing only 960 grams.
The surface is made of durable nylon oxide with a slick acrylic coating, so it’s resistant to water and scuffs.
Opening it up, the main compartment is generous enough for a 19-liter capacity—big enough for your daily essentials without feeling bulky. Inside, there’s a large open pocket and a removable pocket, which makes organizing your tech and accessories straightforward.
The exterior front zipper pocket fits an A4 document easily, and the smaller open pockets are perfect for keys or chargers. The back Velcro pocket is a nice touch for securing your travel documents or a tablet.
The shoulder straps are adjustable from about 19.7 to 36.2 inches, so you can customize the fit for all-day comfort.
What really stood out was the quality craftsmanship—smooth zippers, sturdy stitching, and a quilted nylon lining that protects your valuables. It’s a well-thought-out design that feels both premium and practical, perfect for city commutes or short trips.
Overall, the Force Daypack balances style, function, and durability. It handles everyday messes with ease and keeps your gear well-organized, all while looking sharp.
If you’re tired of bulky backpacks that sacrifice style or flimsy bags that fold under pressure, this could be your new go-to.
Porter 536-17052 Business Backpack, 14L, Men’s
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Well-organized interior
- ✓ Water-repellent exterior
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Dimensions | 11.2 x 16.5 x 4.3 inches (28.5 x 42 x 11 cm) |
| Capacity | 14 liters (31.5 oz) |
| Weight | Approx. 32.6 oz (880 g) |
| Material | Polyester oxford with water-repellent surface; TPU-treated back; Nylon oxford lining with Teflon fabric protector and urethane coating |
| Compartments | Two interior free pockets, one Velcro PC storage pocket, one front zipper pocket, two zippered pockets, one hook, one pen folder |
| Closure | Double zipper closure |
The first thing that hits you when you pick up the Porter 536-17052 backpack is how surprisingly lightweight it feels, despite its sturdy build. The sleek black polyester ox exterior with water-repellent treatment gives it a polished look that instantly elevates any outfit.
As you sling it onto your shoulder, the padded straps feel comfortable, even after hours of wear. The handle at the top is sturdy, making it easy to grab quickly when you’re rushing out the door.
Opening the double zipper reveals a thoughtfully organized interior with two spacious pockets and a Velcro PC sleeve—perfect for keeping your laptop and accessories neatly in place.
The front zipper pocket is handy for quick-access items like your keys or phone. Inside, the nylon ox lining with Teflon fabric protector feels durable and smooth, adding to the premium feel.
I appreciated how well the bag balances style and function, fitting B4-sized documents without feeling bulky.
Carrying it around, I noticed its size (about 11.2 x 16.5 x 4.3 inches) is just right for everyday commutes and short trips. The design feels refined yet practical—no unnecessary bells and whistles, just a clean look with clever compartments.
Overall, it’s a reliable, stylish option that feels like it’s built to last, making it a great choice for work or casual outings.
Porter 507-17995 Explorer Daypack 26L, Black
- ✓ Highly durable materials
- ✓ Thoughtful organization features
- ✓ Stylish and versatile design
- ✕ Expensive price point
- ✕ Slightly heavy when fully loaded
| Dimensions | 13.0 x 17.7 x 6.3 inches (33 x 45 x 16 cm) |
| Material | Cordura Ballistic Nylon (front), Urethane-coated Nylon (back and lining) |
| Weight | Approx. 3.7 oz (1,060 g) |
| Capacity | 26 liters |
| Compartments | Multiple including one interior zipper pocket, exterior water-repellent zipper pockets, key ring, and snap button pockets |
| Handle and Strap Lengths | Handle: approx. 5.5 inches (14 cm); Shoulder strap: approx. 26.8 – 33.5 inches |
The Porter 507-17995 Explorer Daypack 26L in black immediately feels like a well-crafted companion for daily adventures. Its sleek design and durable Cordura Ballistic nylon front, combined with a lightweight 3.7 oz frame, make it both sturdy and comfortable to carry around all day. The Porter 507-17995 Explorer Daypack 26L, Black is a standout choice in its category.
While testing, I appreciated the thoughtful organization with a double zipper interior and a water-repellent exterior that kept my belongings dry, even during unexpected rain. The bag’s size—around 13 inches wide, 17.7 inches high, and 6.3 inches deep—fits B4-sized items easily, making it perfect for work or travel. The multiple pockets, including the zippered and snap button sections, kept everything from keys to chargers in place. When comparing different best backpack mr porter options, this model stands out for its quality.
Overall, the Porter Explorer Daypack offers a refined blend of function and style, with features tailored for the modern commuter. Its careful detailing, like the key ring and multiple external pockets, makes it a versatile choice for those who value both form and practicality in a best backpack from MR PORTER.
Porter Flash Daypack 689-05946 Business Backpack – black
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Stylish, minimal design
- ✓ Well-organized compartments
- ✕ Premium price tag
- ✕ Limited packing space
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Dimensions | {‘Width’: ‘11.8 inches (300 mm)’, ‘Height’: ‘16.1 inches (410 mm)’, ‘Depth’: ‘4.3 inches (110 mm)’} |
| Weight | 16.9 oz (480 g) |
| Capacity | 3.6 gallons |
| Brand | PORTER |
| Price | USD 419.13 |
The first thing that hits you when you pick up the Porter Flash Daypack is how lightweight it feels in your hand. At just under 17 ounces, it’s surprisingly sturdy but doesn’t weigh you down, which is perfect for daily commutes or quick trips.
The sleek black exterior has a subtle sheen that hints at its high-quality Japanese craftsmanship.
The material is smooth to the touch, with a refined texture that feels both durable and refined. Its slim profile, measuring just over 11 inches wide and 16 inches tall, makes it easy to slide under a seat or carry comfortably.
When you open it up, the interior reveals well-thought-out compartments that keep everything organized without feeling bulky.
The main compartment offers enough space for a 13-inch laptop, plus some folders or a change of clothes. There’s a smaller front pocket for quick-access essentials like your phone or wallet.
The zippers glide smoothly, and the overall build feels solid, promising longevity even with daily use.
What really stands out is how discreet and professional it looks—no flashy logos, just clean lines. It’s perfect for both business settings and casual outings.
The handle and straps are padded just right, making carrying comfortable even when it’s fully loaded.
However, at over 400 dollars, it’s definitely an investment. Also, the slim profile might limit what you can pack for longer trips.
Still, if you want a sleek, high-quality backpack that balances style and function, this Porter is a smart choice.