What is a shoulder backpack?

A shoulder backpack for men and women is a special type of shoulder bag that is designed to be worn on one shoulder. With a single, often adjustable shoulder strap, the backpack is worn diagonally across the upper body, making it easier to carry personal items while keeping your hands free. Depending on the material and design, the shoulder backpack is suitable for a variety of uses, from everyday errands to travel or outdoor activities.

The ergonomic design of shoulder backpacks aims to minimize the strain on one shoulder. They have various compartments and sections that allow the organized transport of essentials such as wallets, smartphones or keys. Whether made of robust canvas or fine leather, the shoulder backpack meets both practical and stylistic requirements.

Is a shoulder backpack the same as a cross bag, crossbody backpack or sling bag?

A shoulder backpack is not necessarily the same as a cross bag, crossbody backpack or sling bag, although these terms are often used synonymously. However, there are subtle differences, which mainly lie in the design and the way it is worn:

Shoulder backpack:

This is a general term for backpacks that are worn over one shoulder. The weight distribution and comfort can vary depending on the model.

Cross Bag/Crossbody Backpack:

These backpacks are worn across the body, with the bag on the opposite side of the shoulder where the strap goes. They often offer quick access to contents and are useful for activities where you want to keep both hands free.

Sling Bag:

Similar to the crossbody backpack, the sling bag is worn across the body. However, the sling bag is often smaller and slimmer, ideal for carrying just a few items.

What are the advantages of a shoulder backpack?

Shoulder backpacks score points for their portability and flexibility. The single shoulder strap makes them quick and easy to put on and take off, making them ideal for situations where you need to access your belongings frequently, such as when shopping or sightseeing. They also offer enough storage space for the most important items without being bulky. Their ergonomic design minimizes the strain on one shoulder, making them a comfortable option for short periods of time or lighter loads.

However, for longer trips or carrying heavier loads, a traditional backpack with two shoulder straps is more advisable. These models distribute the weight evenly across both shoulders, thus relieving the strain on the back. In addition, they usually offer more storage space and special compartments for things like laptops or hiking equipment. In such cases, a traditional backpack offers significantly more comfort and functionality than a shoulder backpack.

Which essentials belong in a shoulder backpack?

Wallet with means of payment and identification documents

In the modern world, digital payments are ubiquitous, but you won't get very far without a well-organized wallet. This should contain both cash and important cards such as debit and credit cards. Personal identification documents such as an identity card or driving license are also indispensable.

Smartphone and charging cable, possibly power bank

A smartphone is often more than just a means of communication; it is a navigator, camera, notebook and entertainment system all in one. A charging cable is therefore just as essential to ensure you don't lose touch while on the move. For longer trips or days when you need to be constantly reachable, a power bank is a useful addition.

Keys and car keys

Your keys are literally the access to your home and, if you own a car, your vehicle, so they should always be kept within easy reach in a separate compartment of your shoulder backpack so you don't have to search for them for long.

sunglasses

Sunglasses are not only a fashion accessory, they also protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. High-quality sunglasses are a must-have, especially for outdoor activities or in summer.

Important cosmetics, such as sunscreen

When you're out and about, small cosmetic aids like sunscreen, hand cream or lip balm can significantly increase your sense of well-being. Sunscreen is essential to protect your skin, especially when the sun is shining brightly.

Which outfit should I combine with a shoulder backpack?

A shoulder backpack usually emphasizes a casual, sporty style and therefore goes particularly well with informal and outdoor-oriented outfits. A combination with classic safari elements is an excellent choice. Consider using khaki or earthy tones and choose lightweight shirts and cargo shorts or pants. Materials such as linen or breathable cotton harmonize perfectly with the texture of a shoulder backpack and bring out your adventurous flair.

Accessories are also important to add the finishing touches to your look. A pair of sturdy boots, a well-chosen pair of sunglasses and maybe even a matching hat can complete the outfit. If your shoulder backpack is made of materials like leather or canvas, look for similar or complementary textures in your garments to create a cohesive overall look.

What is the best shoulder backpack brand?

DRAKENSBERG bags are exceptional in every respect. For us, sustainability is not just a buzzword, but an integral part of the design and functionality. We create authentic travel companions that would have been just as impressive two centuries ago. Our choice of materials relies on natural raw materials, avoids polyester and nylon and instead chooses pure cotton and full-grain and vegetable-tanned leather. The zippers also come exclusively from YKK.

Currently, there are no leading brands of women's and men's bags that could serve as role models for us. Even renowned manufacturers continue to rely on conventional chrome tanning and manipulated leather surfaces. The use of plastic inserts to make the leather appear thicker is also widespread in the industry.

"Vegan" leather is often nothing more than conventional plastic. It is extremely rare to find materials that are truly 100% plant-based. The term "natural leather" is also used inflationary. We do not consider leather that is backed with foam to be "natural leather", but rather to be of inferior quality.

A first-class shoulder backpack in the 21st century should not only be functional, but also ethical. At DRAKENSBERG, we largely avoid the use of plastics. Our materials are not laminated with plastic, and our fabrics do not contain nylon or polyester. The leather used is sustainable and vegetable tanned, even if it is not completely chrome-free. This creates a product with character that is authentic and honest.

Are DRAKENSBERG shoulder backpacks waterproof?

The majority of our products are neither waterproof nor water resistant.

However, our Adam and Dale models are made from waxed cotton and are water-repellent. These shoulder backpacks can definitely withstand a rain shower and are given additional shape stability by the wax incorporated into the outer material.

We deliberately leave the majority of our range in its natural and non-impregnated state in order to preserve authenticity. However, our shoulder backpacks for men and women can be impregnated quite easily to at least maintain water-repellent properties. Colorless impregnation sprays for leather and textiles are suitable for this, such as IMPRÄGNOL Universal Impregnation Spray. Alternatively, the cotton materials can also be treated with wax, such as Dr. Gee's Impregnation Wax. We recommend testing the wax in an inconspicuous area of ​​the material according to the instructions before treating the entire bag. Please note that the color usually becomes 1-2 shades darker due to the impregnation wax.

100% waterproofness is only possible with products that are made entirely of plastic.