Best running backpacks for trail runs, half marathons and city commutes

With seven handy pockets and 5l of storage, this is a practical pick if you’re after a budget unisex bag. The adjustable straps offer a flexible fit, so it’s a great option for sharing with another runner, to halve the cost of buying new kit. The bag comes with a whistle (which is mandatory on all trail races, for safety) and the colour schemes offer aesthetic appeal. The two chest and side straps mean it can be adjusted to suit any frame and, at just 180g, it’s one of the lightest on our list.

In our testing experience, we’ve found that there are bags on the market that are double the price yet half as comfortable as this one. It’s no surprise Evadict has done it yet again and produced a fantastic product at a fraction of the price of its competitors.

This running bag is aimed specifically at female runners. While we needed a few trial runs to figure out the best tightening system placement, once the sweet spot is found, it’s an incredibly comfortable ride. At just 141g, it’s also the lightest on our list. Each water bottle’s straw can be cut to fit (by popping them in boiling water), and the massive pockets mean you can store and grab any kit or food easily.

We tested the mushroom shade, which didn’t stain or mark with sweat easily, even when it was put through its paces on a 65-mile ultramarathon. The stretch fabric and 5l capacity meant pretty much everything we needed fitted in easily and, thanks to the deep non-zip pockets, they stayed put, too. This offered storage peace of mind for keeping our keys and phone safe while we were concentrating on the road or trail ahead.

Whether you’ve got a long kit list or need to carry a change of clothes to the office, this is the bag for you. The 6l storage capacity comprises five front pockets, including two stretch-mesh deep front stash pockets and two secure front carry pockets, which are ideal for 500ml flasks. Plus, there’s an easy-access zip pocket for reaching everything you need, without the fear of dislodging your mobile phone or car keys. There’s plenty of storage space and, of the two rear pockets, one is a deep, full-length one, which is perfect for a water bladder. We found that the ultra-lightweight fabric wicked away sweat quickly, making it a comfortable wear even on a warm day, or while sporting layers.

You’ll also find loops for securing running or walking poles, making it perfect for longer, more technical runs. Weighing 205g, this bag has reflective strips for better visibility at night, during an early morning run or for a late-night commute. If you’re looking for a mid-range bag that ticks all the practicality boxes, this is a great option.

As the only one on the list without front pockets for water bottles or bladders, this buy is marketed as a commuter’s bag. The compact 32cm x 43cm x 14cm backpack fits a laptop securely without it digging into your back during movement, and we noted the comfortable fit, even after an 8km run. There’s an integral chest strap, which holds the bag in place securely, and while the additional belt strap feels a little overkill, that’s not an issue. If the waist strap isn’t to your taste, it can also be fastened round the back of the bag. On dry days, we were pleased to discover the bungee cord on the front is a great place to store a jacket or any excess clothing. If green credentials are important for you, it’s made from recycled fabrics, too.

The joy of Arc’teryx’s running vest is you really don’t feel like you’re wearing it. It’s sleek, breathable, fits smoothly against the body and weighs just 165g. Despite being incredibly lightweight, there are a total of eight compartments, including a zippered pocket with easy front access and two flask holders. This makes it excellent for racing, as you don’t need to faff around reaching for essentials when out on the trail. The vest also has enough capacity to carry a light jacket, hydration and a first aid kit, so, it’s an excellent companion for hiking, too.

As with so much of Arc’teryx’s apparel, there are nifty little pockets to tuck away loose ends and ties, so you don’t have anything irritating you as you run. It’s at the higher end of the price bracket for a running vest, but if you’re serious about trail running, this high-quality bag is well worth the investment.

If storage is your priority, this is the bag to choose, as its 10l capacity is the biggest on our list. Available in two colours, the backpack weighs just 240g, so there’s a lot of lightweight space – making this a great option for a winter trail race when the mandatory kit includes waterproofs. It can carry up to 2l of water and is perfect for long solo training runs or to avoid stopping in at every race check point. The tube length can be cut to fit the desired length and the three adjustable chest straps adapt to suit the shape of all runners, so it won’t rub on long-distance runs.

Additionally, there are two elastic straps for trekking or running poles and a quiver can be bought separately to offer a quick-release option when you’re against the clock. It’s an incredibly lightweight option for its capacity, and we particularly liked the waterproof smartphone pocket, which ensures you can call your nearest and dearest to tell them about your PB post-race, too.

With this vest, Osprey has created something that feels comfortable and still has plenty of space. The snap-in adjustable and removable dual chest straps make it easy to adapt the fit as you run, so, when your flasks are empty and you feel like you could do with tightening up the bag, you won’t lose any speed.

This backpack has plenty of easily reachable pockets, which means you won’t have to stop to find your Kendal mint cake. The hydration flasks pop out fast, enabling an easy refill at checkpoints for getting straight back on the road or trail. It’s slim but incredibly comfortable and ergonomic, and, if you’re interested in green credentials, it’s made from 100 per cent recycled materials.