Professional DJs are known to have a very hectic schedules. Those who are new in the DJ world also tend to travel a lot for their gigs and practice. They are supposed to carry their DJ equipment along and that could only be done well if they have the best backpack for it. The need is to pick a backpack that is essentially designed to securely carry all the gear.
Here is a quick preview of our top 10:
#1. Gator Club Series DJ Backpack with Laptop Section
#2. JetPack Drop System for DJ Controller and other DJ Equipment
#3. Odyssey Digital Stuff Backpack
#4 . Magma Riot Small DJ Backpack
#5. JetPack Snap DJ backpack
#6. Pelican S15 Elite DJ backpack
#7. JetPack Prime Large DJ Backpack
#8. Chauvet DJ Backpack
#9. JetPack Slim DJ Backpack
#10. Orbit Concepts Portable DJ Backpack
The DJ equipment can be of varying sizes and the need is to find one which could accommodate all of that stuff. Unlike many other specialized backpacks for different jobs, finding the best backpack for DJs is an uphill task. You cannot go wrong here even with anyone feature. Let us try to help you out with all that you need to know about the best DJ backpacks and how to buy one for you.
The best DJ backpack is the one that comes with a plethora of innovative features. It should act as a versatile organizer that could allow you to pack and carry all your gear with ease, comfort, and safety. The below products have got it all and you still need to check and pick one that suits your needs in the best possible manner:
#1. Gator Club Series DJ Backpack with Laptop Section
This large-size DJ backpack easily tops our list for its incredible range of features that suit the needs of DJs. It is specially designed for ensuring mobile recording and for those DJ who has Serato type interface. The external hard drive pockets make it a highly organized bag that gives you the liberty to arrange all your DJ stuff in a systematized manner.
DJs are known to work in darker indoor venues and for that matter, the bright orange interior makes it easy to locate the stuff they need from the bag. The ventilation channel with excellent breathability makes it possible to wear this bag for longer hours and with no sweaty feeling.
The manufacturer has also given due consideration to the padding. This could be especially seen for the laptop sleeve and also for the dedicated sections for the DJ mixer, audio mixer, and projector, etc.
Pros
- Dedicated pockets for DJ equipment
- Raincoat provided for bag
- Excellent breathability property
- Long-lasting material
Cons
- Does not fit large CDJs
#2. JetPack Drop System for DJ Controller and other DJ Equipment
The space and organization of dedicated pockets of this DJ backpack make it a lovely choice for all the active DJs out there. There is safe and comfy space available to slide in a 17 inches laptop. There is a special floating compartment to place your headphones which will make retrieval of the equipment so easy. There is plenty of storage space for other accessories and digital media.
On top of that, you will find dedicated space for the DJ controllers, mixers, laptop stands, cables, and a lot more. A lot of DJs have found this one to be comfortable in carrying the most used mixers of today where a lot of other bags struggle with the space. You will be pleased to know that the bag is expandable too so that you could stuff in more things if that is required.
Pros
- Backpack together with roller bag
- Sturdy roller wheels for easy portability
- Spacious dedicated compartments with padding
- Can be expanded if required
- Size good enough to fit overhead compartments
Cons
- A bit heavy to carry with the handle
#3. Odyssey Digital Stuff Backpack
This backpack promises to live up to the expectations of modern DJs with all of their needs. It is a full padded backpack that offers maximum protection to all the delicate gear that DJs have to carry. The inner compartments are nicely divided with sufficient padding to secure other digital stuff in the best possible manner.
The laptop compartment inside is sufficient. You may also adjust it for securely fitting in the laptop as per the size of it. There is a dedicated compartment for headphones too which is ideally located so that it doesn’t get compressed with the weight. There is a separate compartment for the laptop stand as well.
Pros
- Excellent protection with padding
- Multiple pockets for dedicated storage of DJ gear
- Productive cable holders with elastic band
- Top-quality zippers
- Fully padded back, shoulder straps, and handle
Cons
- Weight distribution is not ideal
#4 . Magma Riot Small DJ Backpack
This is a compact DJ backpack that will be very convenient for frequently traveling DJs. The backpack is capable of fitting in the basic DVS setup which includes the likes of the sound card, control records, headphones, and laptop stands, etc. Moreover, this small size is capable of carrying a small DJ controller as well which comes from reputable brands. The material used in the construction of this bag is Tarpaulin which is sturdy, durable, and waterproof. The zippers provided are top quality and PVC coated as well. You will find all the compartments just what suits all the needs of the DJs. Overall, this DJ backpack will provide you great comfort, productivity, and return for your investment.
Pros
- Ergonomic and sturdy design
- A flexible back and chest straps
- Fully padded back panel for secure storage
- Versatile interior with removable dividers
- Breathable mesh pockets outside
Cons
- The laptop compartment seems not to be waterproof
#5. JetPack Snap DJ backpack
This is the most compact DJ backpack from JetPack that still has a lot of compartments. You can trust this one to carry a laptop, laptop stand, headphones, microphone, cables, USB devices, and other necessary stuff of DJs. It has a portable and travel-friendly slim design which will suit the needs of active DJs.
This SNAP series lays the foundation of the SNAP series of bags from the brand which comes with the rolling bags. Such rolling bags could then be used for carrying powerful equipment such as mixers and controllers. This bag could carry a laptop of 17 inches with ease. There is plenty of room for other key DJ accessories which will be carried with all safety and protection.
Pros
- Excellent padding around the bag
- Ultra-slim portable design
- Can open up to 180 degrees
- Sturdy and portable design
- Can store 12 inches vinyl records
Cons
- No space for mixer or controller
#6. Pelican S15 Elite DJ backpack
This is a magnificent DJ backpack with durability that will be at its best. Pelican is the company behind making a lot of top-quality firearm cases for the military of the USA. So, they know what quality means with the backpacks and other similar stuff. This one is a fully padded and watertight bag. It has an IP67 waterproof rating and it promises not to allow any moisture to penetrate inside the bag. If you have got the budget then go for this one. It will allow useful storage of your DJ equipment including your laptop.
Pros
- The backpack is crushproof
- Plastic shell for extra protection
- Fast access with top loading
- Useful pressure equalization valve
- Watertight sturdy design
Cons
- A bit heavier backpack
#7. JetPack Prime Large DJ Backpack
JetPack is arguably the best manufacturer of DJ backpacks. It is mainly because of the versatility, durability, and suitability of the backpacks for DJs with varying needs.
This specific variant of the brand is suitable for carrying a laptop, laptop stand, mixers, controllers, headphones, tablet, vinyl records, cables microphone, USB mobile devices, and a lot more.
Thanks to the spacious and large interiors with an assortment of various pockets. The organizational system of this backpack is designed with inputs from the most experienced DJs in the world.
You can rest assured about the quality of this backpack as well. You can fit in a 17 inches laptop in the main compartment along with all other major and minor DJ equipment in their respective pockets in the most secure manner.
Pros
- Versatile mixer compartment
- EVA foam padding all around
- Built-in sleeves for carrying vinyl records
- Water-resistant nylon material
- Adjustable shoulder straps
Cons
- The fully loaded bag may tear soon
#8. Chauvet DJ Backpack
This one is a highly durable DJ backpack that is essentially designed to transport all DJ gear with care. Several compartments will keep a multitude of DJ equipment in a very organized manner. Further, you will also find them to be very easily accessible.
The internal compartments are also dedicated for multiple accessories to be stored. The audio cables could pass well through the bag while being attached to your smartphone or MP3 player.
There are dual D-rings provided as well which enable supplementary large items to be easily hooked. This would keep stuff hands free most of the time.
Pros
- Can fit in 15.4 inches laptop
- Weigh only 2 pounds
- Excellent padding provided
- Multiple compartments
- Quick-release key rings
Cons
- The material might not last long
#9. JetPack Slim DJ Backpack
This is one of the largest backpacks with the maximum number of compartments that a DJ could have. It promises to carry all of the essential DJ equipment. On the flip side, the versatility of this bag is such that it could be used as a regular backpack for travel as well. There is no wasted space in this backpack when it comes to storing and carrying the DJ gear in a very organized fashion.
The main compartment of the backpack provides an elevated headphones compartment, hard drives pocket, cables section, and space for phase system, power supply, mixer, controller, and a lot more. You may also use it to add in your items. There is a back compartment that is good for carrying several vinyl records along with the slipmats. You can use it for carrying a 17 inches laptop as well.
Pros
- TSA approved and travel-friendly design
- Sturdy water-resistant nylon material
- Superbly padded shoulder straps
- Comes with a one-year satisfaction guarantee
Cons
- Hard and rigid carry handle
#10. Orbit Concepts Portable DJ Backpack
This is a compact and nice backpack for carrying essential DJ equipment with style, comfort, and elegance. There are numerous pockets to carry a multitude of DJ stuff securely. There are pockets available for holding speakers, faders, batteries, scratch records, mobile devices, and a range of other DJ accessories.
There is a sleeve built-in that could accommodate vinyl records of 7 inches. The nylon material used is quite durable and waterproof as well. The zippers used are top quality along with the Ripstop lining. Moreover, the pockets provided are all versatile and customizable as per the needs of DJs.
Pros
- Sturdy ad lightweight nylon material
- Strong closing buckles with thumb loops
- Breathable back
- Excellent padding
- Netted quick-access side pockets
Cons
- Only for very basic DJ needs
Frequently Asked Questions about DJ Backpacks
What is so good about nylon DJ backpacks?
They are lightweight, durable, inexpensive, non-absorbent, and easy to maintain shape.
Do DJ backpacks have a separate compartment for headphones?
Yes, and they should have. The headphones due to their flexibility are more prone to damage. They could be well protected only if they are securely and separately placed in the backpack.
What flexible or adjustable features I should look for in a DJ backpack?
There are DJ backpacks with an expandable feature for an easy fit in a congested place. Moreover, you should look for one with adjustable shoulder and sternum straps.
Can I have a DJ backpack that could carry two laptops?
DJ backpacks are usually designed to carry one laptop. However, you need to swap your mixer if you want to carry two, which is less likely to happen.
What to look for in a DJ backpack?
Backpack bags are designed to transport your gear to wherever it needs to be.
Look for a backpack bag that is light and comfortable.
DJ Backpack Bags are useful for DJs because they help transport equipment without having to carry it around.
Backpacks should be made out of breathable and padded fabric.
You should choose a bag that fits everything you need.
Make sure that the bag is comfortable and easy to carry.
You can organize your gear by keeping it in different sections of your bag.
Why Buy a DJ Backpack?
A DJ backpack is an important piece of equipment for DJs. It holds all the essentials needed for performing music. You’ll also want to make sure that it fits comfortably on your back.
Should I Buy a DJ Backpack?
Buying a high quality DJ backpack is a wise choice for most mobile DJs. Some people prefer carrying everything around on their backs while others choose to use a bag or case. Whatever works for you is what matters. With so many different styles and designs available, finding the perfect backpack for you could be difficult.
How is the storage?
The top of the bag features an easy-to-use pocket for holding sunglasses, a cell phone, or whatever else you want to carry. There is also a plastic insert that moves around quite often and can be annoying. There is a front zipper that offers a small storage area for carrying a phone, wallet, or charger. Be careful when the backpack is full, as the zipper tends to open rather easily.
We have a main compartment, a laptop compartment, and a tablet compartment. There are two smaller compartments for passports, checkbooks, etc. The biggest compartment holds a bag or jacket.
Things to Consider when buying DJ backpacks
Before you start with this section, you need to have a good idea about the type of DJ equipment you have. You must also be sure about your preferences and what exactly you would like to have while moving around with your DJ equipment.
If you have all of this information handy with you then you will be able to find a backpack that will be customized as per your needs. The factors to consider discussed below will bring you closer to a perfect selection of a DJ backpack:
Design and Style
You are a DJ after all so the aesthetics of your DJ backpack should give vibes that are cheerful and much closer to life. You must pick the design and color scheme accordingly. The style should be like complimenting your personality as a DJ. If you try well then you may find a bag and customize it with your name or initials to make it more personalized.
Material and Portability
The DJ equipment itself can be very heavy so you don’t need a heavy bag on top of this which could further add to the weight. So, if you are convinced to buy a lightweight backpack (which you should) then there are two major types of materials to look for. Fiber is a good one which is much lighter, but it could be more expensive as well. Nylon is comparatively heavier but the price is quite low. Both of these materials make smart choices and you will find them to be functional and durable as well.
You must look for a backpack which is good enough to last for a couple of years at least. The wear and tear signs should not come before that period and that would justify your investment. The Ripstop material is known to be quite good in doing a wonderful job in protecting all of your delicate electronic items. Make sure that you do invest in getting a waterproof material as well.
Portability with lightweight is not all about the exterior material. The inner frame of your bag also contributes a lot to the weight of your bag. You must look for one that comes with a basic and lightweight frame. This wouldn’t feel rigid at all while carrying and you will also be able to maintain their shape while they are not in use. The inner fame of the backpack could well be large and stiff if you have some really heavy equipment such as a DJ controller to be carried.
After that and in the portability zone, you must look for one that comes with a good handle to carry or having the wheels to drag on the floor. On top of that, the shoulder straps must also be there with an ample amount of cushioning so that you could carry them comfortably.
Remember that you might need to carry the fully loaded backpack for a longer time during your travel from home to the venue or between one venue and the other. You must evaluate the padded back and the shoulder straps as to how comfortable they would feel while wearing for long hours.
Just try to get the feeling that how such bags would sit on your body and how evenly they will be able to distribute the weight inside.
Security of Equipment
You are supposed to carry delicate equipment in the DJ backpack so you cannot take chance with a bag that is not made to secure such equipment inside. The need is to have a backpack that has some good security-related features to handle delicate equipment. You need to look for a bag that is good for protection against wind, water, and weather. It must also be good against accidental drops. The bag in this regard must have excellent material (discussed above in the Material and Portability section). It is also good to have zipped pockets so that you could lock them for the security and protection of your items inside. Having other security features will be a big plus as well.
Compartments
When it comes to a backpack then you will see a lot of options out there in the market with so many different features. The idea is to find one which could securely place your DJ controller, laptop, mixer, portable turntables, headphones, wires, and other required DJ equipment. For that purpose, you must look for a backpack that comes with dedicated compartments to hold on to your DJ equipment.
If you try to squeeze in two or more items in one compartment then there would always be a risk of damage. It is also important to check the volume or size of the bag. You are the best person to understand this that what are the mandatory equipment which you will always have to carry and what are the optional ones. Determining the capacity of the backpack is of utmost importance and you must not overlook this critical aspect.
Brand and Warranty Reputation
It is a good idea to look for a DJ backpack that comes from a well-reputed brand. Another key thing is to look for the ones that have excellent warranties as well. Warranty would address and back a lot of quality control issues in the backpacks which you might experience. It is a reputable brand that would minimize all those quality concerns. If you get one with a rock-solid warranty over the material and other features of the backpack then that would address your investment in a good way.
Conclusion
Buying the best DJ backpack requires you to do a lot of research. If you go wrong with any one specific feature then it could mean a lot of trouble on your DJ trips, tours, and gigs. Therefore, it is important to take your time and make sure that the backpack is as per the requirements of your gear. Comfort should be of prime importance with the backpack here.
This is not a one-time requirement as you need to deal with it on regular basis. So, make sure that you do well with the features like size, material, security, portability, backpack carrying style, and multiple sections to organize gear in the best manner.
In essence, you need a backpack that you love to carry proudly and the one which motivates you to give your best on stage or in live performances.
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