Today’s trends lean towards minimalistic, functional and ergonomically safe everyday carry options that provide easy access and remove heavy, bulgy backpacks. A sling bag comes with drastically reduced storage space, making you think about bringing only the things you actually need.
With a sleek and chic design, these everyday carries allow you to keep your hands free while being durable, waterproof, and accessible. You’ll find the perfect setting with an adjustable strap, while the padded and breathable back panels will prevent you from getting hot and bothered.
With their lightweight, compact form, these bags are perfect for an adventure and your daily routine. So if you’re searching to add to your EDC items collection and want a functional bag with super-fast access to your belongings, this is the place to be!
Over the last two months, we’ve tested over 35 products, so we can help make your decision easier. In this article, you’ll discover the top 10 products on the market today.
1. The 5.11 Tactical Rush Moab 6
5.11 Tactical offers a wide range of products that defines its brand through challenge and fortitude, promising preparedness beyond limits. They showcase that the right mindset, training, and gear are what separates those who are ready from those who aren’t. This brand offers purpose-built equipment for the most demanding missions and extreme conditions, so you are always prepared.
Made out of high-grade 1050D nylon, the 5.11 Rush Moab 6 features a lightweight, durable construction that’s water-resistant, preventing moisture and water from entering the bag’s interior. The 5.11 Rush Moab 6 heavy-duty construction also showed its YKK zipper closure and MOLLE system with a SlickStick web platform exterior.
Coming with multiple pockets and various spacious compartments that keep your personal items organized, this pack is equipped with a dedicated admin panel for quick and easy access. Plus, a covert pocket at the rear provides secure storage for a weapon. The MOAB was created as a high-performance sack with tactical CCW utility thinking about every aspect when constructed. That’s why in our eyes, the 5.11 Rush Moab has no competition.
Designed for people on the go, the 5.11 has adjustable compression straps that give you the desired length, while its cushioned panel reduces strain on the shoulder, making this EDC sling bag our personal favorite.
Features:
- YKK Zipper Closure
- High-grade 1050D nylon
- Water-resistant
- Multiple pockets & admin panel
- Rear for CCW utility
- MOLLE SlickStick web platform exterior
- Adjustable shoulder strap
2. Maxpedition WOLFSPUR
The WOLFSPUR is a cross-body shoulder bag that’s optimized for concealed carry with a fully loop-lined rear CCW compartment and 17 inches of zipper opening for unobstructed access with an oversized pull tab secured by double snaps for a fast draw.
The main compartment of the Maxpedition Wolfspur is lockable with a padded pocket that can fit most tablets for extra safety and multiple gossamer mesh pockets and elastic straps for organization. In addition, this upscale sling has a side expandable water bottle pocket and a fleece-lined EVA pocket featured on the front of the pack for storing fragile items.
A reinforced seatbelt webbing shoulder strap with quick-release buckles allows comfort and length adjustment with superior, high-quality materials that create an accessible and sleek design. Even packed full, the Maxpedition weight distribution works like magic, creating a comfortable experience. With this everyday carry, you get what you’ve paid for, and in this case, it is pure perfection.
Features:
- Reinforced seatbelt webbing shoulder strap
- Multiple pockets & elastic straps
- CCW access
- Loop-lined compartment
- Expandable water bottle pocket
3. BLACKHAWK Advanced Briefcase
The Blackhawk Advanced Briefcase is ideal for civilian travel and tactical operations with a robust shoulder strap and carry handle. Constructed from 1000 denier Nylon with reinforced stitching for durability and waterproof interior lining, this sling bag is an awesome option to consider with various exterior pockets.
This Blackhawk model includes three external easy-access pockets, five additional interior compartments, two hook and loop patches, and a removable vinyl ID window. It gives you external laptop access through waterproof zippers from a padded, hook, and loop-configurable pocket.
Compatible with all-wheeled luggage, the BlackHawk Advanced briefcase has a rear slot for pull-handle access, making it ideal for traveling. It is quite strong, well-made, durable, and great for all kinds of gear and personal belongings due to the extra space it provides. It is constructed with high-quality materials while being affordable and keeping your valuables safe.
Features:
- Reinforced 1000 denier nylon
- Waterproof interior lining
- 2 hook & loop patches
- Removable ID window
- Multiple pockets & compartments
- Rear slot for pull-handle access
4. Condor Elite Sector
The Condor Elite Sector sling bag is constructed with Mil-Spec 500 denier Cordura fabric, a high tensile strength composite nylon thread. It has YKK zippers throughout the pack with paracord pull cords and an air-flow system on the back to maximize ventilation and back support.
The main compartment of the Condor Elite backpack comes with a removable MOLLE panel and soft armor insert pocket. At the same time, the second part has hook lining for modular accessories but keep in mind that it’s sold separately.
It consists of an exterior pouch compartment for tools, a concealed carry pocket with a quick access slot, and a Lockster buckle to connect the sling and waist strap. All compartments have grommets for drainage. You also receive a sling-integrated daisy chain that makes the bag solid.
Suppose you want an everyday carry bag that’s ergonomic, lightweight, and accessible without being overly bulky. In that case, this is a good option that maintains a simple look without losing its durability and usability. This one can come in handy if you want a low-profile pack without all the tactical straps, patches, etc. but still possessing all everyday essentials.
Features:
- 500 denier Cordura fabric
- YKK zippers with paracord pull cords
- Removable MOLLE panel
- Multiple pockets & pouches
- Lockster buckle
- Air-Flow system
- Hypalon attachment point for D-Rings
5. GREGORY Body Bag
This GREGORY body bag is a switch sling with an incredibly lightweight design that will be your best friend for day-to-day activities and outdoor adventures. The Gregory is made of 420D cross nylon and has a great zipper closure with a round-type double fastener for easy opening and closing.
The Gregory body bag includes a fastener outside pocket for flat items that offers easy access, while the inside stash pocket is spacious and secure for your personal belongings.
This everyday shoulder sling can become your to-go bag, featuring an innovative hybrid system with breathable padding. Even with a fully loaded pack, this EDC option distributes weight properly and stays light.
The brand is all about improving the experience you get with its adjustable suspension and an updated back panel that offers exceptional breathability. This is a smaller sling option with a slim minimalist look that’s also compact, durable, and just as accessible.
Features:
- 420D cross nylon
- Zipper closure
- Inside & outside pocket
- Switch sling
- Round-type double fastener
6. Coach Houston Pack
The Coach Houston pack is reimagined in richly textured buffalo-embossed leather embellished with the same intricate stitching found on a baseball glove. The Coach pack has a fabric lining and zipper closure, but some customers have complained about the difficulty that comes with opening and closing a zipper considering the item’s price.
With a protective flap for a laptop and plenty of interior pockets, the Coach Houston has space for your belongings and a simple way to organize them. The pack has an outside zip pocket for easy access and an adjustable shoulder strap for the preferred length of the bag.
The Coach Houston is stylish with high-quality genuine leather, but we think it’s overpriced, considering what you get from it. If you searching for a bag that’s more fashionable than durable, this might be something you’ll like, but if you’re trying to find a sling that can be useful and tough, this won’t be the best option.
Features:
- Smooth calf leather
- Zip closure
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Zip pockets
- Laptop sleeve with secure tab
7. Polare Modern Style Sling
Polare has specialized in men’s leather bags and wallets for over 15 years, showcasing traditional Italian craftsmanship and high quality. They pride themselves on making products that stand the test of time and are still affordable. The handcrafted soft grain leather Polare uses is strong, supple, and ages gracefully while outfitted with robust hardware and premium YKK zippers.
The Polare is designed for easy organization, so you’ll have immediate access to all your daily essentials on the go, while the built-in headphone port keeps your hands free so you can vibe to your favorite music. It has a reversible shoulder strap that allows comfortable carrying on either side and can be adjusted to the desired length.
If you want to be stylish and comfortable at the same time, then give this Polare model a look. This zippered pocket option is made for day-to-day activities and outdoor adventures. It also has a one-year manufacturer’s quality warranty.
Features:
- Handcrafted soft grain leather
- Premium YKK zippers
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Built-in headphone port
- Breathable padding
8. Kucspp Cool Real Leather
Kucspp has specialized in high-quality, affordable slings that are both practical and fashionable while advocating classicism, elegance, and durability so they can provide a pleasant user experience. Their slings are made of genuine thick cowhide leather for an efficient and stylish look.
Kucspp offers a quality product that’s very well made and the leather is thick and strong enough to ensure long-lasting wear.
Stitching and hardware are done incredibly with a soft cotton lining and YKK zipper closure, ensuring reliability and safety. This versatile Kucspp includes eight large and small pockets where you can put your credit cards, cash, glasses, keys, and other everyday essentials.
Its adjustable padded cross-body shoulder strap is very comfortable to use and can be adjusted to the desired length avoiding back and neck pains. The Kucspp Cool leather bag comes with one year warranty assuring its usability and durability.
Features:
- Genuine cowhide leather
- YKK zippers
- Soft cotton lining
- 8 large and small pockets
- Adjustable padded cross-body shoulder strap
9. Vertx EDC Commuter
Now you to hit the range straight after the office with the Vertx EDC Commuter multi-purpose commuter EDC sling bag. This compact product allows for full carry options or simple grab-and-go capabilities with its efficient design. You can experience all the benefits of an everyday carry with this nylon sling, designed for the prepared professional.
The Vertx Commuter comes with an orbital padded strap design for fast back-to-front transition, four exterior zip pockets, and interior organization pockets that provide optimal storage for gear and personal items.
Built to last, this commuter sack has a polyester lining and great zipper closure. That’s not all. The Vertx Commuter can fit a laptop up to 15″, unlike most products on this list, which is impressive on its own.
It includes a loop-lined interior pocket that opens outward for easy access, making it ideal and compatible with concealed carry. The hide-out convertible front flap acts as an additional load sling or stows away to reveal a MOLLE field while reinforcing internal pockets for even more security and extra gear.
Features:
- 100% nylon fabric
- Polyester lining
- Zipper closure
- Orbital strap design
- Multiple pockets
- MOLLE field
10. TravTac Stage II.
This inexpensive TracTac Stage II is ruggedly constructed from premium materials and upgraded 900D fabric, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. It is suitable for hiking, hunting, travel, and much more.
Good for many occasions, the TravTac Stage II gets rid of the big, bulky, and heavy accessories out there with a superior tactical MOLLE system and zipper closure. This unique product can be configured in three ways: shoulder pack, chest/back sling, and hand carry. It also has a shoulder strap that is detachable and can be adjusted in length.
The TravTac padded shoulder strap provides comfort, while the zipper pulls provide safety for this durable sling. It has three zippered compartments and multiple dividers for easy organization, including a thickly padded back pocket that’s well-suited for concealed carry.
You also get a highly reflective safety patch that helps with night visibility. The patch is Velcro-backed, making it removable for trail marking or rescue signaling. If you’re trying to find a bag that’s affordable, durable, and lightweight, the TravTac Stage II might be the right fit for you.
Features:
- Upgraded 900D fabric
- MOLLE system
- Detachable, adjustable & padded shoulder strap
- Multiple compartments & dividers
- Reflective safety patch
What to consider when buying a bag for everyday carry?
Remember that every single bag is different from the next. Still, in today’s market, the variety of colors, sizes, and styles can be overwhelming, and that’s why we’re going to try and help you out so that you can make a well-informed decision.
When deciding on the best EDC sling bag, you must consider size and volume, fabric and materials, zippers and hardware, straps and buckles, weather resistance, back panels, and organization possibilities.
Slings bags are compact and can’t hold as much as a backpack, so you have to keep that in mind. The size and capacity of an everyday carry remind you to pick the minimalist way and only carry the essentials.
For your bag to be durable, you have to pick one made of long-lasting material, preferably comes with a YKK zipper closure and is weather-resistant (a.k.a waterproof).
One of the most important things when looking for an everyday carry is comfort. That’s why you should carry only what you need since these products’ weight isn’t evenly distributed, and no one wants a sore shoulder.
An EDC sling bag offers flexibility, durability, and convenience while keeping your personal belongings organized, dry and secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sling bag?
A sling backpack is a regular backpack that’s smaller and only has one strap worn cross-body. Most models tend to be triangular and slimmer in general. Given they are worn on one shoulder only, they also have a smaller capacity for your personal belongings to avoid shoulder and neck pain.
Of course, there should always be enough space to throw in your compact multitool, flashlight, and wallet, among others. They are quite useful and safe due to a hidden pocket, zipper closure, and overall organizational features. They normally are compact, durable, and weather-resistant, making them a great companion for day-to-day activities.
What’s the difference between a sling bag and a fanny pack?
This question has been an ongoing debate on the internet for a while because most people don’t see any big differences between the two. Not only are they different in shape, but usability as well. Fanny packs are used as accessories with a hipster vibe when sling bags are generally purchased because of their ample storage, durability, and safety.
Are sling bags comfortable?
An EDC sling bag is a very comfortable option if you don’t forget that all you need are the essentials. If you want a minimalist, durable and secure product, this is a great option, but if you’re someone that carries a lot of stuff, this probably isn’t the best choice for you.
That’s because slings are one-shoulder bags, and if you carry heavy items, the weight won’t be distributed evenly, creating the possibility of back pain and body discomfort. So if having heavy stuff is part of your daily routine, you better consider getting an EDC backpack instead.
How to avoid back pain from a sling bag?
In our opinion, the first thing you have to do is carry less than five percent of your body weight in the EDC sling bag, so you don’t have to worry about any discomfort in the neck, back, or shoulders. When organizing and putting your stuff, you should keep the heavy items at the bottom because they help you maintain a better curvature.
The simplest advice we can give you is to change the bag position every once in a while so that not only one shoulder is receiving all the weight but both. Last but not least, keep in mind that these products are supposed to carry your essentials, and you don’t have to pack them full of items you ‘might’ use.
Final Words
If you’re someone with a busy life that’s always on the go, or you simply want a convenient everyday carry for the outdoors, an EDC sling bag is what you’re looking for. It will keep your hands free while the breathable back panels won’t get you hot and sweaty. Slings packs give you easy access to your personal belongings while keeping them secure and dry.
In our eyes, there’s a clear winner, and that’s the 5.11 Tactical, created for people on the go that appreciate minimalism, safety, and durability. Let us know which one was your favorite. If you have any questions or suggestions, all you have to do is drop them in the comments below.