I’ve previously referred to one of Waterfield’s earlier backpacks as a mini-Tardis due to its unexpected capacity in a compact design, and the latest Shinjuku Backpack takes this concept even further.
This backpack appears slim, capable of holding a MacBook, charger, and a few other essentials, yet its thoughtfully organized interior offers remarkable space.
Design & Aesthetics
The backpack is crafted from waxed canvas, a robust and water-resistant material, complemented by leather side panels and accents. It is offered in a selection of brown or navy, alongside unwaxed canvas options in black or green.
Over the past few years, waxed canvas has evolved from a purely functional material to a trendy choice. While I have a fondness for leather, the blend of these two materials in this bag creates a rugged yet stylish look.
This is a bag I’d feel comfortable taking to an important meeting or an upscale restaurant, although I think it pairs better with a leather jacket than with formal attire.
I will delve into more specific features, but rest assured that it boasts all the little details and quality craftsmanship I expect from this San Francisco-based brand.
Size, Capacity, and Organization
The backpack measures 17 inches in height, 10 inches in width, and 5 inches in depth, providing a total capacity of 16 liters.
Inside, there is a padded laptop compartment that fits a 16-inch MacBook Pro, along with a separate padded slot for an iPad, accommodating a 13-inch iPad with Magic Keyboard comfortably.
An internal elastic water bottle holder is versatile enough to fit everything from a travel mug to a 1-liter thermos. When not in use, it can be easily tucked away without taking up space.
Additionally, there’s a zippered security pocket ideal for a passport, wallet, and cash.
The interior has ample space for a sweater, books, or any other items you’d need for a day trip, and it can even serve as a lightweight weekend bag. If you’re traveling with more, there’s a rear luggage strap that allows it to slide over the handle of a suitcase – a feature every bag maker should include, as it makes a significant difference.
On the outside, two zipped pockets are available, with the top pocket featuring two expandable slots and the bottom one containing an accessory slot and two pen slots. Both pockets can easily hold an iPhone 16 Pro Max and are perfect for carrying charging bricks, portable SSDs, and power banks.
There are also two slim side pockets available. They may not fit an insulated coffee cup (which belongs in the inner slot), but one can hold a small umbrella while the other carries a small water bottle. When not being used, these pockets can fold flat to avoid obstruction.
Real World Use
For me, the most significant advantage of this bag is the ability to carry a substantial amount while retaining a sleek silhouette. Backpacks can become cumbersome on public transportation, and removing them can be tricky while trying to hold onto a grab rail. At only five inches deep, this bag poses no such issues for those around you.
This design choice is intentional; the name was inspired by Tokyo’s bustling Shinjuku district, one of the world’s busiest transit hubs.
The padding for the laptop is reassuring, and with both devices stored closest to your back, I felt confident that neither would be damaged by other passengers.
The interior features a reflective gold lining, a now-common attribute in high-end bags. This design helps illuminate the bag’s contents, making them easier to locate, and I am continually impressed by how this enhances usability.
All zippers are from YKK, a reputable Japanese company known for their durable, waterproof zippers. In my years of using bags with YKK zippers, I’ve never encountered one that has malfunctioned. The dual pulls on the main zipper allow for convenient access from the middle or to secure it to one side in crowded settings.
Cost and Final Thoughts
As I’ve mentioned previously, Waterfield’s bags come at a premium price, and the Shinjuku Backpack is priced at $329. However, as I have previously noted, the materials, craftsmanship, and design justify the standards expected from a high-end, American-made bag in this price range.
As a self-proclaimed bag enthusiast, I’ve been using several of Waterfield’s products for over five years, and each has proven to be durable. If you seek a compact backpack that serves as an additional carry-on bag and merges impressive capacity with a rugged yet stylish design, this might just be the perfect choice for you.
The Waterfield Shinjuku Backpack is available on the company’s website, offered in four finishes, each priced at $329.
