Do you like to be ready whenever the creative urge strikes? If you are an artist, you are sure to want to keep your art materials with you at all times. However, it is important to be able to keep your artwork and materials safe and secure.
Fortunately, there is a range of backpacks with the needs of artists firmly in mind. They come with special compartments to help protect your equipment and keep it separate.
So, let’s take a closer look at the best backpacks for artists to help you find your new perfect travel companion…
Contents
- 1 Top 7 Best Backpacks for Artists Reviews
- 1.1 1 Sienna Plein Air Ultimate Backpack (CT-BCK-1814) – Best Lightweights Artist Backpack
- 1.2 2 Walfront 4K Canvas Bag – Most Durable Backpack for Artists
- 1.3 3 Sleeri 4K Canvas Artist Portfolio Bag – Best Drawing Portfolio Backpack for Artists
- 1.4 4 Huion Water-Resistant Artist Portfolio Tote and Backpack Bag – Best Waterproof Backpack for Artists
- 1.5 5 US Art Supply Black Nylon Portfolio Bag – Best Backpack with Tube Slot for Artists
- 1.6 6 LONTG Water-Resistant Art Portfolio Carry Case Backpack – Best Small Square Backpack for Artists
- 1.7 7 Martin Universal Design Just Stow-It Backpack for the Arts – Best Compact Backpack for Artists
- 2 Best Backpacks for Artists Buying Guide
- 3 What are the Best Backpacks for Artists?
Top 7 Best Backpacks for Artists Reviews
1 Sienna Plein Air Ultimate Backpack (CT-BCK-1814) – Best Lightweights Artist Backpack
If you love to mix art with photography, you are sure to appreciate this versatile backpack. The Sienna Plein Air Ultimate Backpack is set with external straps for a tripod. There is also a special pouch at the back to fit your tripod feet in. As a result, this is one of the best backpacks with tripod holder for artists.
At less than two pounds in weight, you can be sure that this backpack will not weigh you down. The backpack material is breathable to help keep you cool and comfortable. And the shoulder straps are fully padded. There is also a waist buckle strap to help distribute the weight.
Plenty of pockets…
Keeping different items organized is easy when you have this backpack. There is a mesh side pocket that is large enough for a water bottle. Likewise, three zippered external pockets are ideal for small items like pens and pencils.
There is also plenty of space inside to store all of your art gear. The overall dimensions of the backpack are 9 inches by 3.5 inches by 15.7 inches. This is plenty of space to fit paint pallets, sketchbooks, and even a small easel.
No locks…
However, it should be noted that the external compartments are not lockable. This limits the types of things that you can store in them. You are likely to want to keep valuable items in the interior of the backpack where they are not so accessible.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- Weighs less than two pounds.
- Easily accessible front pockets.
- Tripod carrier straps.
- Large internal mesh pocket.
- Fully padded shoulder straps.
Cons
- The compartments are not lockable.
2 Walfront 4K Canvas Bag – Most Durable Backpack for Artists
You are sure to be ready for any time of artistic occasion when you own this smart backpack. The Walfront 4K Canvas Bag boasts a robust and durable design. It has been created from thick yet breathable material that allows air to circulate to help keep your art materials fresh.
The large and padded straps make this backpack easy to carry on your back when you travel. There is also a large grab handle to provide an additional carrying option. The grab handle has been fully reinforced to make it especially strong and sturdy.
Time to get organized…
Four large pockets are set into the front of this backpack. Each of the pockets has been created in different sizes and shapes to allow you to store different items. The pockets are secured by sturdy clips and adjustable straps to make them especially versatile.
The internal compartment is also especially spacious and can accommodate plenty of art materials. Furthermore, with plenty of space, it is one of the best artist backpacks for 4K sketchpads or an art portfolio case. You will even have enough room inside to store a foldable easel or tripod for optimum convenience.
Lock it up…
The main internal compartment is secured by a pair of large metal zippers. It is possible to slip a padlock through the ends of the zipper for extra security. The overall design of the backpack is so strong and sturdy that it is one of the best heavy duty backpacks for artists on the market.
(5 / 5)Pros
- Rubberized side handle.
- Multifunctional pocket design.
- Padded shoulder straps.
- Large loop grab handle.
- Heavy-duty canvas material.
Cons
- Limited color options.
3 Sleeri 4K Canvas Artist Portfolio Bag – Best Drawing Portfolio Backpack for Artists
With its bright and bold design, this canvas backpack is sure to stand out from the crowd. The Sleeri 4K Canvas Artist Portfolio Bag comes in a bold brick red color. However, Sleeri has also created a range of other colors and patterns to choose from, including sky blue.
But is this one of the best?
Keeping different types of items organized will be easy when you own this backpack. There are six different pockets in total set in the interior and exterior of the backpack. Each of the pockets is created in a different size, making the backpack ideal for a collection of different items.
The pockets are secured with large and durable zippers as well as clips. This is sure to keep your smaller items such as brushes and pens safe and sound. The internal compartment provides plenty of space for a backpack or tablet.
There are large and padded shoulder straps that can be adjusted to the perfect length. They are also set with mesh on the back to help keep you cool while you travel. There is also a large padded grab handle to provide an extra touch of versatility.
Keep in mind…
However, it should be noted that the canvas material is not waterproof. This could be a bit of an issue if you get caught out in the rain. You will need to place your sketchbook in a plastic sleeve to help keep it protected.
(3 / 5)Pros
- Zippered front pockets.
- Adjustable shoulder straps.
- Side grab handle.
- Six different pockets.
- Large internal compartment.
Cons
- Not fully waterproof.
4 Huion Water-Resistant Artist Portfolio Tote and Backpack Bag – Best Waterproof Backpack for Artists
If you regularly use your tablet to sketch on, it is important to keep it fully charged. The last thing you want is to run out of battery power in the middle of an important project. This won’t be an issue if you own the Huion Water-Resistant Artist Portfolio Tote and Backpack Bag.
Time to get connected…
This backpack boasts a built-in USB port that can be used to charge your tablet, phone, and other electronics. As a result, you will never have to worry about running out of juice again. The backpack features adjustable and fully padded shoulder straps as well as a padded grab handle.
The discrete pocket that is built into the front of the bag is ideal for holding brushes and other small items. There is also a collapsible side pocket that can be used to hold a water bottle. The main compartment is secured by a durable double zipper closure that can also be locked with a padlock.
Smaller than others…
If you work with an easel or a large sketchbook, you are likely to find that this backpack is rather small. However, the internal compartment is spacious enough to accommodate a 15.6-inch tablet. This makes it one of the best backpacks for digital artists who regularly work while on the move.
The fully waterproof design will also provide extra peace of mind while you travel. If the weather takes a turn for the worst, your electronics and other gear will remain protected. The overall design is smart and sleek and is sure to satisfy the needs of urban warriors.
(4.6 / 5)Pros
- Side water bottle pocket.
- Double zipper closure.
- Adjustable padded shoulder straps.
- Hidden front pocket.
- Padded grab handle.
Cons
- Not large enough for an easel.
5 US Art Supply Black Nylon Portfolio Bag – Best Backpack with Tube Slot for Artists
Next, in our reviews of the Best Backpacks for Artists, are you searching for a backpack that you can take rolled artwork to the office or college? It is important to make sure that your artwork remains safe and fully preserved during transit. Unexpected rain showers of shocks could easily damage unset and fragile artwork.
So what’s the solution?
The US Art Supply Black Nylon Portfolio Bag has been designed to keep your artwork safe and secure. This innovative backpack features a dedicated tube slot on the front for carrying rolled artwork. The sides are cushioned to help prevent your artwork from becoming crushed during transit.
This backpack has been created from waterproof nylon to keep rain and moisture at bay. There are also two additional zippered compartments on the front of the backpack. These compartments are perfect for keeping smaller art supplies and other items separate and organized.
Stylish and practical…
The bag has been created in the style of a briefcase and offers a range of different carrying options. There is a padded and fully adjustable strap that you can slip over your shoulder. There are also grab handles attached to the top and side of the bag for extra versatility.
The only catch is that the zippers are rather thin and flimsy. Therefore, you will need to be extra careful when opening and closing the backpack. As a result, it is best to avoid overloading and straining the backpack.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- Accommodates most sketchpads.
- Handle and top carrier strap.
- Padded adjustable shoulder strap.
- Waterproof nylon material.
- Front tube slot.
Cons
- The zipper is rather flimsy.
6 LONTG Water-Resistant Art Portfolio Carry Case Backpack – Best Small Square Backpack for Artists
If you like to make a statement, you are sure to appreciate this cool artist’s backpack. The LONTG Water-Resistant Art Portfolio Carry Case Backpack comes in light blue with black piping that is especially eye-catching. However, you can also choose the more sedate all-black version if you prefer.
But is it just a pretty face?
This backpack is set with ridged edges that provide extra support. You will not have to worry about the edges of your portfolio or sketchpad becoming crushed during transportation. There are also two zippered front pockets, which are ideal for organizing brushes and other small items.
The backpack has been created from high-quality oxford fabric, which is especially rugged and resistant to scratches. The material has been treated so that it is waterproof. The waterproof liner also provides your sketchbook and portfolio with an extra layer of protection against moisture.
Build for everybody…
The backpack is set with wide and fully adjustable shoulder straps for enhanced comfort. This helps to ensure that the backpack will fit people of different heights. This makes it one of the best fitting backpacks for artists you can find. Likewise, there is also a large top grab handle so that you can carry it like a briefcase if you prefer.
The overall dimensions of this backpack are 19.9 inches by 15.25 inches by 1.5 inches. This provides plenty of space inside for a large collection of artwork and supplies. However, if this backpack was an inch longer, A3 sketch pads would be the perfect fit.
(4.2 / 5)Pros
- Water-resistant liner.
- Available in two colors.
- High-quality oxford fabric.
- Two zippered front compartments.
- Ridged edges.
Cons
- Could be slightly longer.
7 Martin Universal Design Just Stow-It Backpack for the Arts – Best Compact Backpack for Artists
In terms of style, this cool backpack is sure to appeal. The Martin Universal Design Just Stow-It Backpack for the Arts has been created in the style of a knapsack. It boasts a smart front flap and compact design that is especially attractive and easy to carry.
The backpack features large and padded shoulder straps that can be adjusted to the perfect length. This helps to ensure that you will remain comfortable if carrying your art supplies all day. There is also a large and fully reinforced grab handle so that you can carry the bag in your hand if you prefer.
Embracing pure versatility…
This backpack comes with several adaptable features that artists are sure to appreciate. There is a removable brush case that is designed to attach to the front of the backpack. There is also a removable pad holder that is ideal for sketching while on the move.
The front flap is secured with Velcro to provide quick and convenient access to your art supplies. While the fabric is soft to the touch, it is also especially durable. It has been treated with a water-resistant coating to provide extra peace of mind.
It’s not the size that matters…
If you are searching for a backpack that is large enough to accommodate an easel or sketchpad, this model will not suffice. However, it is one of the best art supply backpacks. And it can handle tablets, small drawing pads, and a range of other items. Whether or not this is the bag for you will depend on your specific needs.
(4.1 / 5)Pros
- Removable pad holder.
- Adjustable shoulder strap.
- Reinforced grab handle.
- Water-resistant fabric.
- Removable brush holder.
Cons
- Not large enough for easels or sketchpads.
Best Backpacks for Artists Buying Guide
As you can see, the best artist backpacks come in a wide range of different styles. This means that you will need to keep your specific needs firmly in mind when checking out the options. Here are some key things to think about when you are viewing the best artists backpacks.
Size Matters
First off, you need to check the dimensions of the backpack to make sure that they meet your needs. If you regularly carry a sketchbook, make sure that the internal compartment is large enough to hold it. You may also have specific requirements regarding the size and shape of the external compartments.
Materials
It is a good idea to choose a backpack that has been created from waterproof materials. If you live in a hot and humid area, breathable materials may be more important. This will allow the air to circulate through the backpack to help keep you cool and comfortable.
Weight
If you have a lot of art supplies to carry, your backpack is likely to get rather heavy. Therefore, it is usually better to choose a backpack that is as light as possible. Every extra pound can weigh you down when you are traveling long distances.
Comfort
Comfort is key when you are traveling long distances with your art supplies. Make sure that the straps of the backpack are adjustable and fully padded. They should help to evenly distribute the weight of the contents rather than holding it in one place.
Durability
When you have chosen the perfect backpack for artists, you will want it to last as long as possible. Therefore, it is important to make sure that it has been created from durable materials. Check the durability of the zippers and areas to make sure that they will not break down.
Ease of Cleaning
Your backpack is likely to get dirty from time to time, especially if you are exploring the Great Outdoors. Make sure that your backpack will be easy to clean when necessary. It will get extra pounds if it is machine washable and dryer safe.
Security…
It is important to make sure that valuable items remain safe while you travel. Lockable compartments will provide extra peace of mind. This reduces the risk of people gaining access to your gear while you are carrying your backpack.
Looking for Something Else?
If you are an artist, designer, or hobbyist, we recommend checking out our in-depth Best Drawing Tablets Review, our Best Fine Point Stylus Pen Review, our Best Standalone Tablets for Graphic Designers and Artists Review, our Best Scanner for Artwork Review, and our review of the Best Printers for Art Prints you can buy in 2023.
For more amazing products, take a look at our Best 3D Printers Review, our Best All-in-One Printers Review, our Best Desk For Artists Review, our Best Drawing Boards Review, and our review of the Best Art Sets and Painting Kits For Creative Artists currently on the market.
What are the Best Backpacks for Artists?
So, which of these artist backpacks should you go for? Ultimately, the style of the backpack that you choose will depend on your specific storage needs. But, in terms of durability and versatility, there is one model that stands out from the crowd. Therefore, we would choose the…
It has a large number of pockets on the outside. These pockets are secured by adjustable straps that make them secure as well as versatile. The lockable double zippers on the main compartments ensure that your valuables remain safe while you are on the road.
So, until next time, let’s get creative.
