The BEST Small EDC Backpack | Chrome Industries RUCKAS 14L BACKPACK

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Hello, 👋 I'm Milo Tash. I'm a Minnesotan crafter, adventurer, gardener, and gear enthusiast. I make videos that take me outdoors. I can talk your ear off about high-caliber gear/tools/equipment that go outside the binary.
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Disclosure: All opinions are my own. When there is a sponsor, they are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links. If the link is from Amazon, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases which helps this channel grow. I only list products that I stand behind. I appreciate your support!

[@Qaptaininsano]

Thank you for this review. I could not agree with you more about everything in this video. I don’t want draw strings or a bag that’s only made for a laptop but I also don’t want structureless bag etc. Every time I look up a product I’m hoping the review video will be like this. I feel like you are a kindred spirit in this super niche area that has frustrated me where I’ve spent so much time researching. It is so hard to find a perfect small edc with the features and style you’re looking for. I’ve gotten really close with a couple bags but the straps don’t sit well on my shoulders. I have a discounted The North Face top loader day pack at 16 liters which is great for me but the straps fall off my shoulders and I have an Osprey Arcane Daypack small at 10 liters which is great but also rubs my neck area weird with the abrasive strap material and you can’t attach a sternum strap. I really want to buy this bag because it’s perfect but I technically don’t need it. Technically. I do have a birthday this year though. I think you can use the strap on the back panel as a luggage pass through if I’m not mistaken! Thanks again for such a good review with features and context of actual use cases.

[@milotash]

I’m glad to know there are other folks like me having the same backpack conundrums and I’m not alone in that! Thanks for sharing your story Noah and for your pro tip on the luggage carrying strap! Chrome is a bit vague on their website currently about the bag features such as that strap. I hope your birthday finds you with a new bag of your dreams 🎂

[@Qaptaininsano]

@@milotash thank you Milo! I can’t say enough how oddly specific your video is and how we had the exact same qualifications for a bag. It’s bizarre lol. It is interesting from a marketing point of view that they’re vague about all the cool details like the luggage pass through strap but also kind of a good sign that the company is intentional with their product in considering how it can be used even at a small size. I’ll probably pick it up by the strap too. This bag category always feels like economy cars where they strip a lot of features for cost but some of us just like small cars for convenience and mobility. Odd simile but I think you get it lol. I think I’m going to go for it and just buy it. Thanks for the awesome video again.

[@khabrio]

Finally someone who is meticulous and minimalist at the same time. Thanks for this, I'll definitely get this one.

[@milotash]

Thanks so much for your kind comment! And super glad you enjoyed the video!

[@louiesantos]

Nice review Milo! Love it. The strap at the back by the way is called the pass through strap so you can insert your bag to the handle of a trolley. So when you’re traveling with a luggage, you only need to push one. Keep it up.

[@milotash]

Thanks for the comment Louie! And appreciate the pro tip! 👍

[@louiesantos]

@@milotash No worries Milo. Im subscribing and I'm convinced to buy the bag too.. :D

[@bpwag]

the bellroy backpack IS too ninja turtley!!! you get it. thanks for the excellent review & high fives from a fellow minnesotan

[@milotash]

🙌

[@jmsmith1767]

1:15 SAME! I’m 42 I bought one for vacation my high school aged kids were horrified. So at least that was worth it hahaha

[@milotash]

Sometimes they’re just so dang useful it’s worth the laughter 😂

[@wejuya]

Wow i Cant believe i found somebody with around 97% the same needs, style, and preference as I do! The items carried, ur style of being not too outdoorish yet not too officey either, a good water bottle pocket, a laptop slot but not “that” usual one bcz not everytime we bring our laptop, and everything u mentioned u want in a bag is just there in my mind!! Thankyou!

[@milotash]

Sometimes stars align! So glad you enjoyed the video and I hope that it helps you find your perfect EDC bag ☺️

[@alanlamm5904]

A very clear, thorough, detailed and refreshingly articulate review. Thank you.

[@milotash]

I appreciate your comment, Alan! Thanks so much and glad you enjoyed ☺️

[@bonniehorgos8485]

Ah I've been looking for a solid EDC backpack for a while! Keep these videos coming

[@milotash]

Much appreciate and so glad you enjoyed!

[@AwkwardFX]

Thank you for the great review! Like you, I am also in search of a small EDC bag but it's been so hard. I look forward to see more reviews of small EDC bags!!

[@milotash]

Thank you for your kind comment! I appreciate it! I wish you well on your continued hunt for the magic small edc bag!

[@ronnieb7631]

The YOUTHS! Oh man did I cackle at that!! This backpack looks perfect!!! Thanks for the killer review!

[@milotash]

Thank you ☺️

[@milotash]

I’m so glad you enjoyed!

[@bentobox3140]

I've been carrying tiny for months too. Here are some tiny ones I've really enjoyed using. The North Face Fusebox S in cream Chuyentactical CT15 Topo Daypack Other days I use a metrorunner sling

[@milotash]

Excellent suggestions Bento! Thank you so much for sharing and cheers to tiny carry!

[@neist]

Love your videos. Thank you for sharing. 😊

[@milotash]

I’m so glad you do! Thanks for your comment and have a great evening!

[@katd710]

Thanks for the review, it was very helpful! (Didnt think what i was looking for existed, but i believe this may be it!)

[@milotash]

I hope it is!! 🤘

[@SirHamnet]

loved this video, thank you!!

[@milotash]

Yay! I’m so glad!

[@liamhopper9988]

Duuuude, another sweet piece. I might just have to get it!!!!

[@milotash]

Thanks Liam! I think it would serve you well if you need a smaller every day carry bag!

[@WreckChris]

I really appreciate this review. I've also been looking for a similar style and dimension of bag of bag. I feel like picking a bag these days requires so much for thought and research because there's so much dreck on the market. This definitely helped to narrow it down! I have quite a few of Chrome's bags, and the barrage has been my main stay for quite a while but it's often too big and bulky for what I need day-to-day. The roll top definitely does not take as much time as you may think it does but it allows you to carry a lot more which on some days is a blessing but on on most it just means that I overload the bag. By keeping the form factor small it forces me to only carry the essentials.

[@milotash]

Thank you so much for this thoughtful comment, Mega, and the bullet point on roll tops. Maybe I’ve been biased with rollers when I should give them another… roll (sorry, poor joke). Hope you find your perfect minimalist carry!

[@WreckChris]

@@milotash I'm pretty sure I'm going to buy this one. I had it actually set in my cart with a few other items from Chrome and forgot to order it before the Black Friday sales went away. I think I'm going to wait till year end and hopefully they have another sale.

[@hsientsay]

Goruck Bullet is the 15L bag I love to use.

[@milotash]

It seems like it has really die hard fans and for good reason!

[@barbarajloriordan2697]

I purchased this at your recommendation, and I very much like what I see. I want to wait and compare it to a few other backpacks before I commit to it, but I think that I very likely will chose this one. I like the modified clamshell opening. The front pocket seems ample. Like you, I carry my laptop only occasionally, so I can put the laptop pocket to carry a few notebooks. The only con that I can find right now is that the bag does not offer a key clip; however, this does not bother me very much because I usually carry my essentials in a separate little over-the-shoulder pouch. Thank you for recommending this bag.

[@milotash]

And thank you, Barbara, for sharing your experience with it! I’m so glad you have been enjoying the bag! ☺️

[@barbarajloriordan2697]

🎒💛

[@PACMPR]

Backpacks can be tricky. You’re right that sometimes the bag liter is a serious option to consider but on the other side, I need a bag that fits my size. I am 6’2 and around 215 pounds. Carrying a 14-18 liter pack is nice but it sure doesn’t fit me well. It’s like needing to wear XL but only getting a S. For me, 24 liter is the sweet spot (for me) for both storage and functionality as well as something that fits my frame. I think where I do struggle though is feeling like I need to fill all 24 liters at all times. I’m getting better but I do carry more than I really need at all times.

[@milotash]

Thank you so so so so much for this perspective. I hope you find the perfect liter size for your needs while still succeeding in the perfect fit. There needs to be a better way to strike the balance.

[@jaimezollars1]

Thanks for the review! I'm considering it, so came upon your video. Looking for something that carries a 13" laptop exactly, because I want it as small as possible to have with me all day on the go, but also have enough room to add in a few other things for a day of errands, working away from home in a coffee shop, or a day in NYC for work without having to go back to the hotel. My family also hikes a lot, so I could it there too, but it can still look professional during other uses. This one seems to be the winner so far! Thanks for your review. Others I am eyeing are the Belmont Classic Compact and Osprey Arcane Small - but both have some review issues with the straps when carrying like a backpack. I usually carry a huge tote but a backpack makes much more sense ergonomically! Now my main conundrum is that I like the natural light color but I'm a bit of a mess so I'm guessin git won't last. How stain resistant is the material ??? :)

[@milotash]

Jaime, thanks for the comment! I think this would work well on the needs you described! I agree, it translate well to small day hikes while still dressed up enough for around town. I also saw the issues with the straps on others like the osprey and didn’t want to take the risk. I would say good with dust and the material had a texture to it so easy to hid dirt on it but the material makeup would definitely absorb a moisture stain and would probably show. I’m no fabrics expert but this is just a hunch!

[@IhovannaStella]

I am eyeing exactly these two at this very point in time! Did you end up purchasing either? What do you think? I am mainly concerned about my small torso and the backpack hitting the base of my neck when I bike.

[@prashantpalshetkar4543]

Great review !! Dont remmeber last time I liked any video on YT. You literally sold me on this bag. Went through all the brands in last 2 weeks, although this is where my search ended. Ordered and expected to be delivered tomorrow. Hoping bag would be as good as your video. Keep up the good work :)

[@milotash]

Heck yes! It sounds like this video actually made its way to you for exactly the right reasons! I hope it’s your perfect bag and your search can end ☺️

[@adrienneeee]

Great review!

[@milotash]

Hey, thanks so much! I appreciate the feedback!

[@MetalcoreGearhead90]

For the past few days I have been down the rabbit hole and damn is it a deep hole. I to am looking for a small edc bag(under 15L), and you pretty much nailed it. great video. liked and subscribed.

[@milotash]

Hey, so glad this video landed for you. It’s nice when you can find a whole group (if you read the comments on this video) of other folks who are going through the same thing. Hopefully you can find the perfect bag 😊

[@lkloh2039]

Thank you for the video, Milo. I appreciate it. You may want to consider Thule EnRoute 14L backpack

[@milotash]

Hey, great suggestion! I enjoy the hard impact case at the top for sunglasses!

[@sold9948]

Superb vid! Mad support for the attention to detail. I've used a Chrome Industries large sling for many years, and they really are a great brand. I don't know how I feel about the materials that are reminiscent of automobile features, like the strap which is literally just a seatbelt... But I mean I really don't. I kind of like it too. Really cool video!

[@milotash]

Hey, thanks for sharing that feedback! I appreciate it and so glad you enjoyed the video!

[@adamw6343]

Thanks for the video. I feel as if you are speaking directly to me; I am on the same quest. A couple bags I’ve been looking at (although at a higher price point) are the Able Carry Thirteen Day Bag, and the City Pack and Day Pack 2, both from Aer. These are good looking, well made bags, but I don’t carry a laptop, and don’t need tons of organization. All the “city” bags are focused on stowing a computer and vast admin design. Some (maybe few) of us want a smaller (15 ish liter) bag that looks awesome, has a comfortable carry, with a quality build, weather resistance, and has a simple interior design. Does the Ruckas 14 stand upright on its own? That would be nice, as well.

[@milotash]

I second that, Adam! This bad needs to be hung up or leaned a bit to stay upright as it’s a bit thin to have the base to stand up on its own. If you’re not afraid of the price point and something that’s a little bit more rugged, the Nutsac (yep that’s the real name) Rucksac was an option that I enjoyed that I didn’t mention in this video. It stands up solo, doesn’t need to carry a laptop, and has a nice open interior. I decided against it due to the lack of zippers but I’m particular. Also I’m really hopeful that Tom Bihn will come out with what we’re dreaming of. They have all the right materials, design eye, and dedication to quality. Just waiting in that right size and simplicity.

[@khanscombe619]

Awesome review Milo lots of cool choices. Now i Need a decent skate bqg.

[@milotash]

Ha! Don't we all! Time to bust out the ol' board!

[@prdbrothers9328]

Excellent video. I have been looking for that 15 liter unicorn myself. I love this backpack! The only thing that keeps me from pulling the trigger is that i wish it had a internal zip compartment like the sling and 23 liter does. Sad day. I have the bellroy compact and the mystery ranch rip ruck 15. I agree that the bellroy has a little bit of a weird structure, especially towards the bottom. The ripruck 15 is a nice little bag and I have made it my mountain biking backpack, but it is too "tactical" for my liking as a EDC backpack. Heres hoping that this bag gets a new update someday with that internal zip compartment.

[@milotash]

I feel that. I also wish there were zippered internal pockets. Perhaps one day!

[@EugeneBuvard]

I wish there was a real laptop pocket, that doesn't go all the way to the ground. That said the durability of chrome bag is crazy, I'm still using a cardiel backpack :)

[@LS-lb7pw]

Excellent review! Subscribed. 😊

[@milotash]

I appreciate that so much! ☺️

[@Miamis4me305]

Couldn’t edit my original comment. I faced the same struggles and also thought the perfect bag just doesn’t exist hence why I own sooo many. But this one seems to fit the bill so I’ll be adding to my collection and maybe will be the one to get me to eliminate the rest lol. Thanks for the video. New sub

[@milotash]

I hope this is the bag that ends your long journey!! It certainly has filled a need for me! Happy trails ☺️

[@hpgrant601]

Flying Lion Gang great video Kadet Night Series 9L and Duck Camo Hondo 21L👊🏽

[@milotash]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@davidecariati5610]

Hi guys, I use the Wexley Madison 12lt and is perfect: I don't need an external laptop compartment and thebbag has 3 quick access external pocket (2 of them on the lower back side, very secure) for smartphone, wallet, keys..

[@milotash]

Thanks for that suggestion!

[@D.Trider]

Alpaka Metro! Just picked it up. Not external water bottle pocket. But can store inside pretty easily.

[@milotash]

Heck yeah, hope you enjoy it!

[@izgoesoutdoors2426]

Hey Milo, awesome video! Does the pack has a key attachment loop in that smaller front pocket?

[@milotash]

No key attachment! I thought there would be at least in the front pocket, but nothing. I thought I’d miss it, but the front pocket is so deep I haven’t been nervous to lose them without it.

[@kronnickusrex7832]

I just snagged the smaller sling version in green can't wail till it arrives.

[@milotash]

Stoked for you!!

[@barbarajloriordan2697]

The Patagonia Atom Totepack looks very promising.

[@milotash]

It’s looks like a unique design for sure!

[@AnsonChiu]

Would be great to see how it looks on your back when the 14litre bag is fully loaded!

[@milotash]

Nice thought! Next pack review I’ll make sure to include that! Thanks!

[@dhilsiva]

Wow! There was not even a single video about this backpack when I was looking. And this video comes out of the blue today! Love it! I'm thinking of getting this bag in green. Are there any other similar capacity bags you would recommend that are cheaper than this one?

[@milotash]

I’m so glad you enjoyed the video!! The green was a close second choice for me for sure. Honestly Jansport was the only brand that I couldn’t that had comparable sizes with lower price points. Quality drops but if it’s your trasher every day bag, who cares - right?

[@dhilsiva]

@@milotash thank you! I'm probably gonna go ahead with this backpack. But do you recommend the black or the green? Is the green a lighter shade of green? Because I don't want dirt to be visible easily when it does become dirty.

Super useful review. Do you think the laptop compartment can hold a 14 inch laptop? This exact bag is on sale right now for a little over $50 right now.

[@milotash]

I think you’d have success with the 14 in-er! Sweet that this is on sale - that’s a steal!

[@houssamalucad753]

The air day pack, Alpaka metro, Troubador apex compact.... all around the 14L size, a lot of such bags exist, but yeah they are not that popular...

[@milotash]

I can see smaller EDC bags becoming more popular and I’m already seeing brands, like the ones you listed, rising to the occasion to meet the small bag demand. Thanks for sharing some other options for folks!

[@pasqualegaudio13]

Hey there - great video! Could you please share your technique with the industrial Velcro tape and the patch? How did you get attached so perfectly? Thanks!

[@milotash]

Howdy! Yes, happy to give a bit more info. I used Velcro brand Heavy Duty Tape (comes in a 12 ft roll pre cut to a wider size). I just snipped off a piece and slapped it on my bag. Truly that simple. I measured a bit for mine but if you have a good eye you could just throw it in. Hold and press and you’ve got a place to mount patches. I put the soft side of the Velcro on the backpack for when I might rock it without any patch so it’s not abrasive. I’ll see if I can whip up a short video showing application soon. Thanks for the inquiry!

[@pasqualegaudio13]

@@milotash Excellent. Thanks Milo!

[@alexanderwunsch4308]

Cool bag, I ordered now. Two questions: 1. How did you put the velcro on the bag? Iron? Glue? Sewing? 2. What is the ideal size of water bottle in OZ? Thx, liked the vid!

[@milotash]

I just applied the Velcro with the built in adhesive, nothing special, but I did use industrial strength Velcro which I think adheres better. As far as bottles go, I use my 32 oz but it is TIGHT. I would go one bottle size smaller for a less constricted fit.

[@ShaluAloo]

L0VE CHROME!

[@milotash]

A great company!

[@terrienoll225]

Been looking at all those very same 12-15L bags for days. Chrome should have made the front pocket side entry. Bellroy should have used orange liner ... Yeah, the Mystery Ranch one, but what can you do with one row of daisy chain--on the side?

[@milotash]

Terrienoll, you are feeling allllll the backpack hunting pains right now. Amazing how it truly is a backpack black hole. I wish you luck and hope that you end up finding the perfect EDC carry for all your needs.

[@terrienoll225]

@@milotash Bought the Chrome and the Bellroy to try on. Chrome on sale for $53! Aer City is too heavy, but lots of pockets …

[@uheard]

How did you attach the Velcro? I’m looking at the 23L version at the moment!

[@milotash]

Industrial strength adhesive Velcro!

[@uheard]

@@milotash On your recommendation i got some and its works a treat! Thank you :) if you think about trying out slings, have a look at bellroy or Aer slings. Big enough but not uncomfortable. I have the bellroy lite and having previously tried and failed to use them, the lite has got me using one daily.

[@supertaj1800]

Where can you see these bags in person? I want to look at some bagpacks but i dont know what kinds of stores to go to. I live in chicago. Any iseas

[@milotash]

Back in the day your local bike shops used to carry chrome. Might still be the case. If you google Chrome store finder they list their retailers but tbh I’m not sure you’ll find this bag in store as I did not (thus this video was born to hopefully help others get a hands on look before buying!)

[@BillKSF]

Do you happen to know if the new MacBook Pro 16” will fit into the side pocket? The dimensions on the website seem to indicate that the top is narrower than the bottom

[@DanPiponi]

My old 15" MacBook Pro doesn't fit so no chance a 16" will fit. This backpack is more suitable for a 13" or an iPad.

[@milotash]

I agree with Dan. A bit snug for a 16in. My 13 fits perfectly in the back panel with an iPad up front in the main pouch.

[@batoolalmoshelli7690]

Any extra "bike" features...bike lock attachment, helmet, etc?

[@milotash]

Not that I can see but I have stuffed my u lock in the back most pouch in the larger pocket which has been nicely padded and hasn’t gotten in my way which is nice.

[@vicflrs]

Think this could hold a 14” MacBook Pro?

[@milotash]

I think you’d have success with the 14’’!

[@EugeneBuvard]

Which laptop size fit? 14, 15 inch still ok or not?

[@milotash]

It fits the 14 but a 15 would be very very snug.

[@EugeneBuvard]

@@milotash I ordered a Chrome Hondo at the end. Maybe I will also get the small Ruckas depending of the size of the company laptop. Thanks for your reply!

[@eyaidghanim7431]

The strap on the back is a luggage pass tru

[@milotash]

You’re wise eyaidghanim! Thanks!

[@eyaidghanim7431]

@@milotash No problem 👍

[@mike__durrett]

Just popping into the comments section to let everyone know this bag is available on a deep discount for 36USD right now, and it looks to be on its way out of Chrome's lineup!

[@milotash]

Get it while it’s hot folks! Thanks Mike!

[@GarryNichols]

Zippers?! I hate the zippers. No really. Seriously I've been designing a small pack that is everything not zippers. That's just my taste.

[@milotash]

Heck yes! Design that pack! Thanks for sharing Garry!

[@tenkarapop383]

4 mins in and still no review wtf.

[@milotash]

Patience is a virtue friend 👍

[@tenkarapop383]

@@milotash unless you’re in quicksand.