6 Best Drawstring Backpack (For School, Gym & Travel)
Whether it’s for your kids going to school, heading to the gym, traveling, or spending the day in town, drawstring bags are incredibly useful. This type of backpack is light, the right size for “enough” things, and they are made to last, most of the time.
At A Glance: Our Top 3 Best Drawstring Backpacks
- Best For School
Vorspack Drawstring BackpackJump To Review - Best For Travel
KAUKKO Drawstring Sports BackpackJump To Review - Best For Sports
BeGreen Drawstring BackpackJump To Review
Finding a good drawstring bag isn’t easy, as there are a lot of affordable options out there that simply don’t last or aren’t so comfortable. So, how do you get your hands on a good drawstring bag? By reading this article.
I have rounded up the best drawstring backpacks on the market so that you can find the perfect drawstring bag for your needs.
Top Product Overview
 | Best For School
| SEE ON AMAZON → |
 | Best For Travel
| SEE ON AMAZON → |
 | Best For Sports
| SEE ON AMAZON → |
 |
| SEE ON AMAZON → |
 |
| SEE ON AMAZON → |
 |
| SEE ON AMAZON → |
Best Drawstring Backpacks
Vorspack Drawstring Backpack
The Vorspack Drawstring Backpack is one of my favorite drawstring bags as it hits all the nails on the head.
Being made from quality nylon, this is a durable drawstring bag and it is water-repellent too. It is not a waterproof bag, but it will keep your contents safe in light rain and it will last a while too.
When it comes to capacity, there is enough room for this drawstring bag to be used as a gym bag, for work and for travel, but I think it is perfect for school supplies.
The large main compartment is roomy, the front zippered pocket is great for extras, and the side zippered pocket is perfect for valuables too.
To top it off it comes with adjustable shoulder straps and they are wide straps, so they sit comfortably. It is also affordable, but the lining can wear out.
Pros
- Wide comfy straps
- Adjustable straps stay even
- Pockets for organization
- Durable build
- Special side valuables pocket
- Affordable
- Versatile
Cons
- Lining can wear out quickly
Product Information
- Volume: NA
- Material: Nylon
- Water-resistant: Yes
- No. Pockets: 3
- Dimensions: 18 x 15 inches
- Weight: 1 lb
KAUKKO Drawstring Sports Backpack
The KAUKKO Drawstring Sports Backpack oozes style and is one of the best-looking drawstring bags I have seen.
It is awesome for traveling but its versatility extends beyond this, as it is great for everything from being a gym bag to anything else.
Built from an oxford exterior and polyester lining, it is tough and it will repel a bit of water if you get caught in a light shower.
It features a zippered pocket or two. One zippered exterior pocket is great for extras, while the main compartment has a zippered valuables pocket, and organization slots for an umbrella, wallet, water bottle, and more.
You can also squeeze in a laptop and tablet in the main compartment which is why this is one of the best drawstring bags for travel.
Pros
- Good style
- Comfortable
- Lots of pockets for organization
- Durable build
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Affordable
Cons
- Straps can slip
Product Information
- Volume: NA
- Material: Oxford fabric/polyester lining
- Water-resistant: Semi
- No. Pockets: 5+
- Dimensions: 12.6 x 5.9 x 17.7 inches
- Weight: 1 lb
BeGreen Drawstring Backpack
The BeGreen Drawstring Backpack is a great gym bag with a lot to offer and is all-around excellent for sports. Most drawstring bags won’t fit a ball inside, this fits a basketball, but that is not all.
This large drawstring sports bag also comes with a dedicated shoe compartment, zippered external pocket, and a mesh pocket on each side for water bottles, or a water bottle and an umbrella.
This is also a drawstring backpack with thick straps which means it is sturdy and comfy enough to carry around as they will not dig in.
You can also adjust them if you want, but they are not designed to be adjustable if you understand me.
This is also one of the better cinch bags when it comes to durability and it will last as a sport, or gym bag for a long time!
Pros
- Large enough for a basketball
- Decicated shoe compartment
- Pockets for water bottles
- 2 further pockets for valuable and more
- Grab handles
- Durable
- Affordable
Cons
- Shoes take up a lot of space
Product Information
- Volume: NA
- Material: Polyester
- Water-resistant: Yes
- No. Pockets: 6
- Dimensions: 16 x 19.5 inches
- Weight: 7 ounces
Adidas Alliance II Sackpack
Adidas Alliance II Sackpack is a very basic but affordable cinch bag that comes with enough storage space for a day out and it has an easy drawstring closure too.
Built from high-grade polyester it is durable and water-resistant, and it even comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can be sure it is built to last.
The drawstring bag features two mesh pockets which are great for small water bottles or an umbrella or both.
This cinch bag comes with no pockets inside the main compartment, but there is a zippered front pocket for valuables.
It is not the most comfortable drawstring backpack to carry around as the straps do not adjust and they are a little thin.
Pros
- Water-bottle sleeves
- Handy external pocket
- Good amount of room
- Durable and lightweight
- Solid water resistance
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Straps are not adjustable
- Could have more pockets
Product Information
- Volume: NA
- Material: Polyester
- Water-resistant: Yes
- No. Pockets: 3
- Dimensions: 15.31 x 10.63 x 2.32 inches
- Weight: 9.9 ounces
Under Armour Adult Undeniable 2.0 Sackpack
The Under Armour Adult Undeniable 2.0 Sackpack is an awesome cinch bag for anyone looking for space and the ability to organize your things as it has multiple zipper pockets.
The main compartment is empty of pockets but has spaces and a drawstring closure that also becomes the shoulder straps. There are 2 further zipper pockets on the front, they are large and could be called compartments.
It looks more like a traditional backpack than anything else and has more than enough space for gym clothes, laptops, and lots more. The shoulder straps even come with a sternum strap for added comfort.
These drawstring gym bags don’t come with adjustable straps and the straps are very long so the bag hangs down too low on most people.
Pros
- Spacious
- Numerous pockets
- Multiple compartments
- Comfortable straps
- Comes with a sternum clip
Cons
- Not so durable
- Straps are not adjustable
- Straps are too long
Product Information
- Volume: 25 L
- Material: Polyester
- Water-resistant: Yes
- No. Pockets: 3
- Dimensions: 7.87 x 5.91 x 1.97 inches
- Weight: 8 ounces
NIKE Heritage 2.0 Gym Sack
The NIKE Heritage 2.0 Gym Sack is about as simple as these backpacks can get. It only features a large main compartment with a single zip pocket for valuables, and that is about it.
But, the simplicity of the bag does make it a great bag for throwing your gym essentials and taking them to the gym, or anything else similar to this.
It has a nice amount of space, it offers comfort on your shoulder, and it is durable. But, it does have some cons, one it is expensive and two the straps are consistently uneven which can lead to discomfort.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- A good amount of space
- Internal valuables pocket
- Comfortable to wear
Cons
- Straps are uneven often
Product Information
- Volume: NA
- Material: Polyester/nylon
- Water-resistant: Yes
- No. Pockets: 1
- Dimensions: 16.93 x 12.99 x 0.39 inches
- Weight: 6 ounces
What To Look For In Great Drawstring Backpacks
Materials & Water-Resistance
Before you buy a drawstring bag, you want to know it is going to last and that your things won’t get wet in a few drops of rain.
Look for drawstring bags that are made from quality materials like polyester or nylon, and these materials are also water-resistant. Together they make a great cinch bag that does what you need it to.
Pretty much all the bags featured in the article can do this, but some are more durable than others, so be sure to look at the pros and cons.
Size & Organization
Another key part to finding the right drawstring bag for you is ensuring it has enough space for your intended purpose, and so you can organize your things well. There is nothing I hate more than having to look through a bag to find things.
Now, cinch bags can be basic with a large compartment and a small zip pocket. Others have multiple pockets for lots of different things, and some are big enough for a ball to fit in along with shoes, water bottles, and more.
Make sure you choose a bag to match what you need it for and you will not go wrong. There is a backpack for pretty much all uses featured in the article from a great travel bag to a gym bag, basic bag, and more.
Carrying Comfort & Straps
Now, there is no point in owning a drawstring bag that is uncomfortable to wear, especially when it is full. The hardest thing about them is the straps as a lot of them are thin, not adjustable, and become uneven quickly, which together cause great discomfort.
I would always choose a backpack with wide, adjustable straps so they are always even and they don’t dig into your shoulders.
Price
The great thing about drawstring backpacks is that they are affordable and range between $15 and $30.
Price is not necessarily an indication of quality in this department though as a basic Nike bag is $30 but a more useful version is $20, so you are paying for the name in that example.
Take a look at the price and bear it in mind but don’t let it sway your decision in either direction, look into durability, function, and comfort above price.
FAQs About Drawstring Backpacks
How To Clean A Drawstring Backpack?
Most drawstring bags are machine washable, so you can throw them into the wash but be sure to have it on a cold cycle of about 30 degrees Celcius.
If your backpack is not machine washable then you can soak it in warm water and hand wash it. Overall, they are very easy to clean.
Can You Even Out The Straps?
The most annoying thing about these types of backpacks is when the straps become uneven and your back gets uncomfortable. But, you can even them out, which is lucky.
To balance out the straps, pull the shorter side hard where the cord comes out of the bag until it pulls through and evens out. This might take some force so don’t be afraid to pull hard when you need to.
Can You Restring A Drawstring Backpack?
Yes, if your straps need replacing simply buy a new one and tie it onto the old ones, and pull it through. You are going to have to do this with each strap. Be sure not to pull the old straps out without tying on the new ones, as there is nothing you can do after that!
The Best Drawstring Backpack: Our Top Choices
Best For School
The Vorspack Drawstring Backpack is an awesome choice for all uses, but it excels for studying. The large compartment is ideal for books, the zippered pockets add organizability, and it is water-repellent too. Also, the straps adjust and they are comfy!
- Sturdy & durable nylon: Made of quality nylon material way more sturdy than most other drawstring bags on the market, offers exceptional strength to hold up everything inside.
- Multifunction compartments: Size 18 x 15 x 5 inches, roomy enough for all your necessities, personal exchange clothes, or gears for work, trip, gym, any out-door activities. One front pocket for small books, phone, tissues private storage like personal items and toiletries. One side pocket for quick access to tickets, phone charger, earphones, tissues, etc.
Best For Travel
The KAUKKO Drawstring Sports Backpack is the best drawstring bag for travel in my eyes. Not only does it have style but it has a ton of pockets for organization.
The main compartment has internal pockets inside, one with a zipper for valuables like your phone and passport, plus multiple pockets for other things. It is also comfortable, the straps are adjustable, and it has water resistance too!
- Material: High quality Oxford fabric and polyester lining.
- Feature: 1 * drawcord at main compartment, 1 * zipped front pocket, 2 inside pockets with zipper and 1 inside pocket with zipper. 6 * side zip pocket on the back, you could be quickly accessible.
Best For Sports
The BeGreen Drawstring Backpack is one of the top drawstring bags for sports. It has a large capacity, can fit a basketball inside, has a shoe compartment, and a mesh pocket for both an umbrella and a water bottle.
- LARGE SPACE: The main space of drawstring backpack for men measures 16" x 19.5" which is big enough to hold a basketball, gym clothing, swim gear, sport towel and daily supplies. Perfect for gym, sports, trip, travel, camping, hiking, walking, running and more! It's also a great sports gift for men, women. Men and women can use it as a gym backpack.
- CONVENIENT COMPARTMENTS: The big shoe compartment on the right side of gym drawstring backpack can hold two pairs of shoes. The front zipper pocket is roomy to fit a kindle, iPad, sunglasses, and other small items. The inside pocket can hold small valuables such as wallet, cellphone, keys to avoid any pickpockets. And two mesh pockets can carry water bottles, umbrella, sunscreen. Etc.This black drawstring backpack also can be used to store small items.
Not to mention, the front zipper pocket for things like your phone and headphones, etc. It is also extremely comfortable to carry, durable, and it will keep your things dry in the rain, to a point.
