-
DIMENSIONS
48 cm x 30 cm x 12 cm
18,9" x 11,8" x 4,7" (H x W x D) -
VOLUME
12 L
3,2 gal -
WEIGHT
0,55 kg
1,2 lbs -
LAPTOP POCKET
16"
Essential Backpack 12L – Clean, Compact, Built to Move
The DB Journey Essential Backpack 12L is made for people who don’t carry everything — just what matters. It’s a compact urban roll-top backpack with real structure, real durability, and a clean, low-profile look.
With its 12L everyday capacity, tough 900D GRS-certified recycled polyester, and Db’s patented Rib-Cage Construction™, it holds its shape, protects your tech, and keeps a structured silhouette — even when it’s not packed to the top.
Who is it for?
Commuters who bike or walk. Students who hate bulky bags. Creatives who move between café tables and studio desks. If your daily setup is a laptop, charger, bottle, notebook, and a few essentials — and you want a bag that stays upright, compact, and composed — the Essential Backpack 12L fits that rhythm.
- Laptop compatibility: Padded sleeve for devices up to 16” (most slim 16-inch laptops, including most MacBook Pro models).
- Weather protection: Water-resistant 900D fabric with DWR + roll-top closure. Built for city rain, not submersion.
- Capacity reality check: Ideal for streamlined EDC. If you pack gym shoes and winter layers daily, size up.
It’s compact on purpose — and that’s exactly why it works.


Why It Feels Different
- True compact format: 12L that feels intentional, not restrictive.
- Roll-top closure: Expands slightly when needed and adds extra weather resistance.
- Rib-Cage Construction™: Internal ABS reinforcement creates a subtle protective shell — structure without stiffness.
- 16” padded laptop sleeve: Secure, elevated, and separated from the main compartment.
- Durable 900D fabric: Resistant to friction, daily wear, and unpredictable commutes.
- Hook-Up System™ compatible: Clips seamlessly to Db rolling luggage for smoother airport transitions.
Many minimalist roll-tops look clean online — until you pack them halfway and they collapse into a soft cylinder. This one doesn’t. The internal structure keeps it upright and stable, so sliding it under a train seat or pulling your laptop out feels controlled, not chaotic.
Compact doesn’t mean delicate — and this one isn’t “minimal” in the cheap way. The DB Journey Essential Backpack 12L proves both.
12L or larger?
Go with 12L if you value mobility and a tight silhouette. Choose a 20L or 25L version if your day regularly includes clothing changes, gym gear, or bulkier winter layers.
Designed for Daily Movement
At just 0.55 kg, it stays light on the shoulders while maintaining a structured profile. The reinforced base helps it stand more confidently than typical soft roll-tops — especially when partially packed.
- Maintains a clean, upright silhouette.
- Protects tech without excessive padding.
- Handles light rain and everyday friction with ease.
- Roll-top adapts quickly when you add a light layer.
- Integrates smoothly with Db travel systems.
What realistically fits inside:
- Laptop (up to 16”) + charger
- Slim notebook or folder
- Water bottle (internal pocket)
- Wallet, keys, sunglasses, earbuds
- Light jacket or rain shell (smart packing required)
For most urban days, it’s the sweet spot. Not oversized. Not limiting. Just right.
Discover more from Db in our DB Journey backpacks collection.

Technical Specs – Essential Backpack 12L
Brand: Db Journey
Product type: Urban roll-top backpack / compact daypack
Style: Minimalist, Scandinavian, unisex
Main material: 100% GRS-certified recycled polyester (900D water-resistant)
Certifications: Oeko-Tex 100, GRS (Global Recycled Standard)
Volume: 12 Litres
Dimensions: 48 x 30 x 12 cm (H x W x D)
Weight: 0.55 kg
Laptop compartment: Fits up to 16” laptop
Closure system: Roll-top with custom Db hooks
Structure: Patented Rib-Cage Construction™ with ABS reinforcements
Base: Reinforced supported base
Water resistance: Yes (DWR finish)
Travel compatibility: Hook-Up System™ luggage attachment
Use cases: Daily commute, university, city travel, light work carry, minimalist trips
FAQ
Yes — the padded internal sleeve is designed for laptops up to 16 inches (most slim 16-inch laptops, including most MacBook Pro models). If your laptop is extra thick or in a bulky hard case, sizing up can feel more comfortable.
It’s water-resistant, not fully waterproof. The 900D recycled polyester fabric, DWR finish, and roll-top closure handle light rain and daily city weather. For heavy downpours or long exposure, a rain cover is recommended.
For most everyday setups, yes. You can fit a laptop, charger, notebook, keys, wallet, and a bottle — plus a light layer if you pack intentionally. If you regularly carry gym gear, thick winter layers, or lunch boxes, a bigger daypack will feel easier.
It’s Db’s patented internal ABS reinforcement structure. It creates a stable, protective “shell” effect so the backpack keeps its shape, stands more easily, and helps protect your gear without needing heavy padding.
The reinforced base plus the Rib-Cage Construction™ help it keep structure and stand more easily than soft roll-top backpacks, especially when it’s partially packed.
Yes — the compact profile stays close to your back and works well for bike commutes, metro rides, and walking-heavy days. If you commute with heavier loads daily, a larger backpack can feel more comfortable.
Spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, then air dry. Avoid machine washing and high heat. If the water repellency fades over time, refreshing the DWR with a suitable spray can help.
In most cases, yes — the compact 12L format is well suited to under-seat use. Airline rules vary, so if you travel frequently on strict carriers, compare the bag’s dimensions (48 × 30 × 12 cm) with your airline’s limits.
