Day Owl Backpack Review – Stylish Grown Up Backpack for Work and Weekends | JUNYUAN

August 11, 2020

Day Owl Backpack Review – Stylish Grown Up Backpack for Work and Weekends

August 11, 2020

A backpack with dangling straps, cheap materials and obnoxious branding doesn’t exactly scream sophistication. And while many backpacks have exactly all of the pockets you need, they really leave a lot to be desired in terms of style. Luckily Day Owl offers a stylish alternative with their flagship backpack that is every bit as mature in design as it is functional.

In this hands-on Day Owl backpack review we take a closer look at all of the features and design details that really make the Day Owl the perfect backpack for adults who need a mature yet versatile backpack for work, weekends and travel.

Day Owl Backpack fitDay Owl Backpack fit

Where to buy: Day Owl

Use code BACKPACKIES20 for 20% off your next Day Owl order of $100 or more!

Table of contents

  • Video Review
  • Materials and Construction
  • Pockets and Compartments
  • What Fits inside the Day Owl?
  • Fit and Comfort Features
  • Final Thoughts

Video Review





<iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/TiZnpQqQwxs?wmode=opaque" height="480" width="854" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
” data-provider-name=”YouTube”>

Materials and Construction

Our first impression of the Day Owl backpack was “Wow, this is a well made bag!

The materials feel robust and solid. Nothing feels cheap. And we can tell that the waxed canvas and leather will wear very well over time. Waxed canvas is a very hardwearing fabric and one of the few materials that actually looks better over time as it develops a rugged patina.

Day Owl backpack review - materials and constructionDay Owl backpack review - materials and construction

When it comes to materials Day Owl prides itself in sourcing only ethically conscious materials that serve a greater purpose. The brand is very transparent with how they source the materials to make each Day Owl backpack. Below is a brief overview.

First Mile Waxed Canvas – First Mile supports micro-economies in underdeveloped communities by offering materials from ethically sourced supply chains. It’s a people-first approach to traditional sourcing. You can learn more about First Mile here.

Day Owl backpack with First Mile Waxed CanvasDay Owl backpack with First Mile Waxed Canvas

100% Recycled Polyester – The lining, zipper tape and thread are all made out of recycled plastic bottles. This eliminates environmental waste in a huge way.

LWG Certified Leather – All of the leather accents are made out of LWG certified leather. LWG is a group that focuses on compliance for eco-friendly and ethical sourcing of leather materials. You can learn more about LWG here.

Day Owl backpack with LWG Certified LeatherDay Owl backpack with LWG Certified Leather

Along with the above materials, Day Owl also ditches cheap plastic hardware for metal ones. Everything from the zipper pulls, snaps on the top handle and shoulder strap buckles are made out of metal. Metal is more robust and long-lasting than plastic pieces and this significantly adds to the durability of the bag over time.

Free Repairs For Life

An underrated feature of the Day Owl backpack is that the brand offers free repairs for life! The bag is constructed to be repaired and not thrown away. This really shows when you look closely at the shoulder strap and body construction.

So few brands offer a warranty like this and we think it’s pretty special.

Pockets and Compartments

Outside Pockets

One of the reasons we call the Day Owl a “backpack for adults” is because of its minimalist design that hides many of the pockets and compartments from view. This gives you a clean profile on the outside of the bag without skimping on organization.

Day Owl Backpack - front stash pocketDay Owl Backpack - front stash pocket

On the front you will find a zippered stash pocket that covers most of the front panel. This is just one big open pocket that is great for bulkier items like large headphones, glasses cases and tech accessories.

Day Owl backpack - glasses pocketDay Owl backpack - glasses pocket

On the top of the backpack you will find a small pocket that is perfect for sunglasses or a phone.

Day Owl Backpack Review - hidden side pocketDay Owl Backpack Review - hidden side pocket

On the one side of the bag there is another small pocket that can fit a pair of sunglasses, a phone or a wallet.

Day Owl backpack hidden chimney pocketDay Owl backpack hidden chimney pocket

But the best pocket is the hidden chimney pocket that can fit long items like a water bottle or small umbrella. This chimney pocket is lined with neoprene – a water resistant fabric that prevents leaks from soaking into the bag.

Day Owl claims that an entire bottle of wine can fit into the chimney pocket so we decided to test it ourselves…

Day Owl backpack wine bottle pocketDay Owl backpack wine bottle pocket

Along with a wine bottle, the chimney pocket can fit most slim water bottles but we found that large diameter bottles (i.e. a Nalgene 32 oz.) will be too wide to fit into this pocket.

Day Owl backpack laptop compartmentDay Owl backpack laptop compartment

The last exterior pocket on the Day Owl backpack is the laptop compartment that is located against the back panel. This laptop compartment is padded on all sides and can fit either a 14” laptop (Smaller version) or up to a 15” laptop (Larger version).

One minor complaint is that the laptop compartment does not have a false bottom. This means that the laptop compartment reaches all the way down to the bottom of the bag with little padding between your laptop and the ground. With a false bottom, there is room between the your laptop and the bottom of your bag for extra protection against drops. 

Members only: Featured backpack deals
The Ridge - 10% Off Sitewide with Coupon Code The Ridge – 10% Off Sitewide with Coupon Code Db - 15% Off with Exclusive Coupon Code Db – 15% Off with Exclusive Coupon Code Everyman - 15% Off Sitewide with Exclusive Coupon Code Everyman – 15% Off Sitewide with Exclusive Coupon Code HEX - 15% Off Sitewide with Coupon Code HEX – 15% Off Sitewide with Coupon Code Day Owl - 20% Off Sitewide with Coupon Code Day Owl – 20% Off Sitewide with Coupon Code Solo New York - 15% Off All Bags &amp; Cases with Coupon Code Solo New York – 15% Off All Bags & Cases with Coupon Code Chrome Industries - Save 10% with Coupon Code Chrome Industries – Save 10% with Coupon Code Filson - 10% OFF Your Next Purchase Filson – 10% OFF Your Next Purchase

Main Compartment

The Day Owl offers a mostly clamshell zipper design that allows for open access to the items inside. Clamshell backpacks are some of our favorites as they offer full access to the entirety of the main compartment. They make packing and retrieving items a lot easier since you can lay the bag almost flat for easy access.

Day Owl backpack with clamshell main compartmentDay Owl backpack with clamshell main compartment

When it comes to internal organization Day Owl has kept it simple by offering just two slip pockets in the back. These pockets are pretty slim and don’t offer much room for carrying bulkier items. For example, a slim external hard drive may fit in the larger pocket but anything bulkier may not fit.

Day Owl backpack inside pocketsDay Owl backpack inside pockets

These pockets are one of the rare cons of the Day Owl backpack since they are simply too narrow and too deep to be very useful. Very small items (chapstick, makeup, Airpods) will sink to the bottom of the pocket and it isn’t fun trying to cram your hand in that narrow pocket to reach for it.

Day Owl backpack hook webbing for keysDay Owl backpack hook webbing for keys

Another small feature is the webbing on the one side of the main compartment. This allows for attaching of keys and other accessories.

What Fits Inside the Day Owl?

The Day Owl comes in two size options: Smaller (16 liters) and Larger (21 liters). Both versions are compact enough to use as everyday carry but may be too small to use as a serious travel bag (longer than an overnight stay).

If packing for a gym workout the main compartment on the Smaller Day Owl can fit:

  • A water bottle 

  • Change of clothes

  • Toiletries Bag

What fits inside Day Owl backpack smallerWhat fits inside Day Owl backpack smaller

While the main compartment in the Larger Day Owl can fit the same plus a pair of running shoes.

What fits inside Day Owl backpack largerWhat fits inside Day Owl backpack larger

As a backpack for work or college we found that both the Smaller and Larger versions can comfortably fit large binders, textbooks and notebooks. You also have the separate compartment for your laptop carry.

There is also still room for things small such as glasses, tech accessories and personal items on the outside pockets while the main compartment is full.

Comfort and Fit Features

Day Owl has decided to keep thing simple when it comes to comfort features. The back panel shares its padding with the laptop compartment and the shoulder straps are also padded for added comfort.

Day Owl backpack review - back panel paddingDay Owl backpack review - back panel padding

When fully loaded the Day Owl comfortable and we found no pinching or digging with the shoulder strap design. A lot of that has to do with the small form factor of the Day Owl that just doesn’t warrant the level of padding you would find in a larger backpack.

Day Owl backpack shoulder straps up closeDay Owl backpack shoulder straps up close

One of the best design features on the Day Owl is their “no slack straps” which eliminates dangling straps by using a closed loop design. This is one of those small design details that makes the Day Owl look a little bit more grown up and sophisticated than your average backpack and it’s one of our favorite features.

The only other backpack we have reviewed with similar shoulder straps is the Black Ember Citadel R2 and we wish more backpack brands would incorporate this kind of shoulder strap design.

Day Owl backpack no slack strapsDay Owl backpack no slack straps

How comfortable you find the Day Owl relies on picking out the proper size. The difference between the Smaller and Larger version is in the width and height of the bag and the shoulder strap positioning.

The shoulder straps on the Smaller version are a little under 2-inches apart at the very top. Where as the Larger version’s shoulder straps are about 2 1/4 inches apart.

The best size for you really depends on your body type. You should choose the Smaller version if you have smaller shoulders and a shorter torso. Taller people or those with broader shoulders will find the Larger size to be a better fit.

You can tell Day Owl wanted to keep this backpack as simple possible. Not only does a simple construction allow for a light weight backpack but it also makes it easier to repair in the future.

Final Thoughts

Overall our Day Owl experience has been an overwhelmingly positive one.

The clean minimalist design and the awesome features like the chimney pocket and no slack straps really make the Day Owl a true “grown up backpack” that can be worn just about anywhere. 

And let’s not forget about the top notch materials and construction. In addition to looking good, the Day Owl feels like a nice backpack. The wax canvas and leather accents are expected to wear very well over time and the metal hardware is a nice touch. The fact that Day Owl offers free repairs for the life of the bag also brings in some serious peace of mind. 

Day Owl backpackDay Owl backpack

Where to buy: Day Owl

Use code BACKPACKIES20 for 20% off your next Day Owl order of $100 or more!
Explore More
10 Best Camera Backpacks for Women - Stylish &amp; Functional Camera Bags 10 Best Camera Backpacks for Women – Stylish & Functional Camera Bags

Find the best camera backpack for women with this curated list of stylish, compact and functional camera bags!

Read More → 23 Best Backpacks for Grad School - Find a Mature Grad School Backpack 23 Best Backpacks for Grad School – Find a Mature Grad School Backpack

Looking for the best backpack for grad school? In this buying guide we explore our favorite grad school backpacks that are mature and campus ready.

Read More → Black Backpack with Gold Zipper - 11 Cute Backpacks You’ll Love! Black Backpack with Gold Zipper – 11 Cute Backpacks You’ll Love!

Looking for a sophisticated backpack for work, school or travel? Find the perfect black backpack with gold zipper to complete your look!

Read More → 15 Best Recycled Backpacks - Some brands will surprise you! 15 Best Recycled Backpacks – Some brands will surprise you!

We list our favorite backpacks made from recycled materials for travel, daily carry and outdoor adventures . With more brands now offering recycled backpacks than ever before, some bags on this list may surprise you!

Read More → Day Owl Backpack Review - Stylish Grown Up Backpack for Work and Weekends Day Owl Backpack Review – Stylish Grown Up Backpack for Work and Weekends

Day Owl offers a true backpack for grown ups with their flagship backpack. In this backpack review we explore all of the hidden pockets and great features that make the Day Owl perfect for both work and weekends.

Read More → 9 Travel Backpack Purses You Need For Your Next Trip 9 Travel Backpack Purses You Need For Your Next Trip

Having a go-to travel backpack purse is an easy way to get the most out of your travel experience. No matter the destination, these convertible travel backpack purses will adapt to your journey.

Read More → Able Carry Daily Backpack vs Thirteen Daybag - Which everyday backpack is right for you? Able Carry Daily Backpack vs Thirteen Daybag – Which everyday backpack is right for you?

If you are on the hunt for the best everyday backpack then the Able Carry Daily Backpack and Thirteen Daybag definitely deserve a closer look. But which should you choose? This hands-on backpack comparison reviews the fine details.

Read More → Best Carry On Backpacks for Women: One Bag Travel for Flights Best Carry On Backpacks for Women: One Bag Travel for Flights

Discover the best carry on backpacks for women who are serious about one bag travel. These backpacks fit the carry on requirement for most airlines and are available in comfortable women’s fits.

Read More → Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack Review - Hands-On with Everlane's Best Travel Backpack Yet Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack Review – Hands-On with Everlane’s Best Travel Backpack Yet

Everlane offers a new environmentally conscious travel backpack in a stylish modern design. We explore what the ReNew Transit has to offer with in this hands-on Everlane backpack review.

Read More → Topologie Haul Backpack Review - A Modern Backpack Tote Topologie Haul Backpack Review – A Modern Backpack Tote

We review the Topologie Haul backpack – a unique convertible backpack tote that pays homage to the early rock climbers and alpinists.

Read More →
Junyuan Bags

Ten articles before and after

Best Leather Backpack for Travel

Best Canvas Backpack

10 Best Made in USA Duffel Bags Available Right Now | JUNYUAN

9 Backpacks Like Vera Bradley | JUNYUAN

Best Women’s Leather Backpack

3 Must-Have Backpack Features for Safer Carry in 2021 | JUNYUAN

Best Vegan Leather Backpack

7 Best Motorcycle Helmet Backpacks Available Right Now | JUNYUAN

How Big is a 30 Liter Backpack? Visual 30L Backpack Size Guide | JUNYUAN

Best Canvas and Leather Backpack

About US

We are bag factory,supplier from China.We provide customization for diaper bag,sneaker bag,tool bag,picnic bag,pet bag,ski bag,food delivery bag,and so on.We provide free bag artwork or design service.Can help you to do DDP service and we accept small quantity for test order.We have BSCI and ISO audit,no problem for REACH,LFGB,CE,FDA ,CPC,CPSIA and ASTM test reports or certificates.