Craghoppers‌ ‌Classic‌ ‌Rolltop‌ ‌backpack‌ ‌20L‌ review: a versatile pack that performs well on the trails

First impressions

Combining slick, street-conscious design with the multiple demands of hiker in a decent hiking backpack is no mean feat, yet the Craghoppers Classic Roll top 20L is a popular choice for those who want a daypack that works for every day use, and can be take for an occasional hike.

The roll-top strap closure is a handy and well-considered piece of design, with the accent buckle forming part of the pack’s main structure. As well as looking good it’s a highly functional feature, workable even when you are wearing gloves. It also doubles as an effective way of compressing items into the pack.

An expandable side pouch allows for a number of items – such as trekking poles or a small hiking water bottle – to be securely stowed inside, whilst a zipped compartment located just below the front helps organize and separate items for separate access; handy for when you want your compass and headlamp to be easy to locate.

An additional zip accessible from the padded back panel allows for stowage of important items that require an additional safety protection, such as a 15-inch laptop. An inner pouch allows for items to also be separated, such as a laptop or tablet, which is ideal for those who want their pack to be suitable for commuting.

The pack also has impressive eco credentials, having been constructed from 11 recycled plastic bottles. The addition of Smart dry eco treatment means the bag will keep items dry during a shower.

As the backpack has a relatively small capacity, it’s light and can be used as a cabin bag when travelling. Finally, for smart commuters the debit cards can be zipped in a RFID pocket, which also has a key attachment.

On the trails

If you’re looking for a daypack which is versatile enough to use for commuting as well as hiking in the hills, the Craghoppers Classic Rolltop 20L might be the one.

This pack proves that technical bags needn’t necessarily just perform in one category, but can have a range of ‘hidden features’ that might just surprise outdoor users old and new.

For sure, this bag wouldn’t necessarily be the first pack you’d grab to head up into the Scottish Munros or tackle Colorado's 14ers, especially outside of summer, as it lacks technical equipment gear loops and compression straps. But, as a high-performing daypack with plenty of useful features, it sure appeals to a hiker who will find the multi-activity functionality useful.

Using the Craghoppers Classic Rolltop 20L pack to deliver a socially distanced teaching session for kids in the city was one of the scenarios where I tested this bag this year. An RFID pocket kept my travel card and debit card safe, while a little key clip made sure I didn’t accidentally drop my car keys. A little back zip provided ample room to stow important documents.

Conversely, during a hike in Hope Valley in England's Peak District, this pack was just as well suited to the task at hand. There was plenty of room for stuffing extra layers into the top – including sandwiches – while a handy side pocket was the perfect size for keeping my headlamp accessible for the early evenings.