Internal Dimensions of a 20 liter main compartment
For our 20L backpack examples we have the Db Strøm, the Topo Designs Rover Pack Classic and the Able Carry Daily Backpack
We used inches to determine the measurements of the inside of each main compartment (interior dimensions). Note that all of these are 20L backpacks!
Db Strøm main compartment dimensions: 15” H x 10” W x 6” D
Topo Designs Rover Pack main compartment dimensions: 16.8” H x 10.8” W x 4” D
Able Carry Daily main compartment dimensions: 18.5” H x 11.5” W x 5” D
External Dimensions of a 20 liter backpack
Below are the overall external dimensions of three different 20L backpacks. This includes all pockets and compartments and takes account of the various materials used.
Db Strøm external dimensions: 17.71” H x 10.6” W x 6.5” D
Topo Designs Rover Pack external dimensions: 17” H x 11” W x 4.5” D
Able Carry Daily external dimensions: 19” H x 12" W x 7.5” D
As you can see from the measurements above, no two 20L bags are exactly the same size.
If you want to determine the best backpack fit for your height, torso and shoulder size then going with the external dimensions will be a better indicator if a backpack size will be too big or too small.
The internal dimensions are where you will want to focus to determine what fits inside each bag.
How much can a 20 liter backpack hold for school?
A 20 liter backpack can hold school essentials such as a few folders, notebooks and books as well as smaller items such as pens, calculators and tech accessories like chargers and cables. Most 20 liter backpacks have additional padded sleeves for a laptop or tablet for safe storage.
Unfortunately, a 20 liter bookbag may be too small for multiple large textbooks, binders and notebooks. If you are a student who carries many large items you may find a 20 liter backpack for school to be too small.
Is a 20L backpack good for high school or college?
We recommend 20L backpacks for students who like to keep their daily carry light. Tech-focused students who only carry a laptop, tablet, tech accessories along with a few notebooks or binders will find a 20 liter backpack well-suited for their needs.
Is a 20L backpack the best size for work?
A 20 liter backpack is a great size for commuters who need an easy way to carry their daily work items. Inside you can fit essentials such as a lunch, an extra sweater, paperwork as well as tech items such as a laptop, tablet, cables and chargers.
If you need a daily backpack for work that can also fit gym gear or a change of clothing on top of daily work items we would recommend sizing up to a larger work and gym backpack.
How much gear will a 20L backpack carry?
A 20 liter gym backpack is the perfect size for essential gear such as a change of clothes, snacks, headphones, towels, toiletries, water bottles and smaller items like weight lifting gloves, jump ropes and resistance bands.
Since a 20 liters is on the small side when it comes to gym bags, bulkier items such as a foam roller or a pair of shoes will take up most of the room inside of a 20 liter gym backpack. If you find yourself carrying a lot of bulkier items at once, we recommend sizing up to a larger bag.
Is a 20L backpack big enough for the gym?
A 20L gym backpack is a great size for lighter carry of smaller workout gear and essentials. If you need a bag for sports, boxing and other activities that requires large bulky gear then a 20 liter gym bag may be too small. We recommend with going with a gym backpack that is 30 liters or more for bulky gear.
If you are on the hunt for a hardwearing yet lightweight 20L backpack for both travel and days on the trail, then we recommend you give the Osprey Daylite Plus a closer look. The multifunctional internal padded sleeve can be used for up to a 15” laptop or for a hydration bladder. Multiple pockets and a roomy 20 liter main compartment give you the storage you need while its water resistant and ultra-lightweight construction makes Daylite Plus a great daypack for everything from daily work commutes to weekend adventures.
The Peak Design Everyday Pack offers the perfect work, photography and travel companion for those who appreciate streamlined style and innovative design. A really neat feature on the Everyday Backpack is its modular interior that allows for custom partitions of photography gear, clothing and more. Add in a water resistant construction, tons of clever pockets and a sleek design and you have a backpack that is as versatile as you are.
The Able Carry Daily is one of our favorite daily carry urban backpacks thanks to its amazing internal organization, tough high quality construction and understated minimalist design. At 20 liters, the Able Carry Daily Backpack is roomy enough for your essential carry without the bulk, making it perfect for work commutes and urban exploration alike.
