Are Roka backpacks worth it? For most people looking for a lightweight, stylish and practical everyday bag, the answer is yes. Roka bags are especially good for commuting, shopping, travel, school runs and day-to-day use because they combine useful pockets, comfortable straps, weather-resistant fabrics and a wide choice of colours.
This Roka backpack review explains which Roka bag is best, how the main styles compare, whether Roka bags are waterproof, and what to think about before buying one in the UK.
Quick verdict: are Roka backpacks worth it?
Roka backpacks are worth considering if you want a bag that looks smart enough for everyday wear but is practical enough for real use. They are lightweight, comfortable, easy to clean and available in lots of colours and sizes.
The main reason people choose Roka is the balance between style and practicality. A Roka backpack does not look like heavy outdoor kit, but it still gives you useful organisation, secure zips and weather-resistant fabric for typical UK days.
Shop Roka London bags and backpacks at Anna Davies.
Which Roka bag is best?
The best Roka bag depends on how you plan to use it:
- Best everyday backpack: Roka Bantry, especially if you want a compact bag for errands, work basics or day trips.
- Best smarter backpack: Roka Canfield, which has a more structured roll-top style and works well for commuting.
- Best small hands-free bag: Roka crossbody styles such as Paddington or Kennington, ideal when you only need essentials.
- Best travel choice: Roka Gatwick or Heathrow travel bags, which give more room for weekends away and overnight use.
- Best add-on: Roka organiser pouches and purses, useful for keeping small items together inside a larger bag.
If you are buying your first Roka, a Bantry or Canfield backpack is usually the safest starting point. If you already have a main backpack, a crossbody or travel bag can be a better second purchase.
Roka Bantry vs Canfield: what is the difference?
The Roka Bantry is the classic everyday backpack shape. It usually suits people who want a simple, practical bag with easy access, useful pockets and a relaxed casual look. It is a good fit for shoppers who want something lightweight for daily errands, work, short walks or days out.
The Roka Canfield has a more modern roll-top feel. It can look a little smarter and more commuter-focused, especially if you like a cleaner silhouette. Many shoppers choose Canfield when they want a backpack that still feels stylish with workwear or city outfits.
| Roka style | Best for | Why choose it? |
|---|---|---|
| Bantry | Everyday use | Classic backpack shape, easy to wear, practical for daily essentials |
| Canfield | Commuting and smarter outfits | Structured roll-top look, secure closure, polished shape |
| Crossbody | Essentials only | Small, light and hands-free for phone, purse, keys and travel items |
| Travel bag | Weekends and overnight use | More capacity for clothes, toiletries and larger items |
Which Roka backpack size should I buy?
Choose a small Roka backpack if you mainly carry a phone, purse, keys, water bottle, light layer and a few daily extras. Small sizes are easier to wear all day and suit people who do not want a bulky backpack.
Choose a medium Roka backpack if you need more room for work, commuting, shopping or days out. A medium backpack is usually the better all-rounder if you carry a notebook, tablet, lunch, extra layers or more than the basics.
If you are unsure, think about the largest item you carry regularly. If you need to fit a laptop, check the individual product details before buying, as suitability depends on both the Roka style and size.
Are Roka backpacks waterproof?
Roka bags are best described as weather-resistant rather than fully waterproof. They are made for normal daily conditions and can handle light rain, splashes and changeable weather, but they are not designed to be submerged or used as technical waterproof outdoor bags.
For everyday UK use, this is enough for most shoppers. If you are commuting, walking around town, travelling or running errands, a Roka bag should cope well with ordinary wet weather. If you need a bag for prolonged heavy rain, hiking or exposed mountain conditions, you may want specialist waterproof kit instead.
Are Roka bags good for commuting?
Yes, Roka backpacks are a strong choice for commuting because they are lightweight, comfortable and easy to organise. Styles such as Bantry and Canfield work well for carrying everyday essentials, while selected designs include compartments suitable for laptops or tablets.
The top handles on many Roka backpacks are also useful on trains, buses and in busy shops because you can quickly carry the bag by hand without removing everything or awkwardly swinging it around.
Are Roka bags sustainable?
Roka London is known for using recycled materials, including fabrics made from recycled plastic bottles. The bags are also vegan-friendly, which appeals to shoppers looking for practical accessories with a lighter environmental footprint.
Sustainability should not be the only reason to buy a bag, but it is a meaningful extra benefit when the design, comfort and durability also fit your everyday needs.
Where can I buy Roka bags in the UK?
You can buy Roka bags in the UK from Anna Davies, where the Roka London collection includes backpacks, crossbody bags, travel bags, totes, purses and organisers. The range changes by season, colour and availability, so it is worth checking the current collection if you have a particular style in mind.
Popular current options include Bantry backpacks, Canfield backpacks, Gatwick travel bags, Heathrow duffel bags, Paddington crossbody bags, Kennington crossbody bags, Marylebone totes, Hampstead lunch bags and Carnaby purses.
Roka backpack pros and cons
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable for everyday wear.
- Weather-resistant fabric for normal UK conditions.
- Wide range of colours and styles.
- Useful pockets and secure zips.
- Made using recycled, vegan-friendly materials.
- Good choice for commuting, errands, travel and day trips.
Cons
- Not fully waterproof for extreme weather.
- Small sizes may be too compact for laptops or bulky items.
- Some colours and styles can sell out quickly.
- Travel bags may be better than backpacks if you need serious capacity.
Final recommendation
If you want one practical Roka bag for everyday use, start with a Bantry or Canfield backpack. Choose Bantry if you prefer a classic casual backpack and Canfield if you want a smarter roll-top style. Choose a crossbody bag if you mainly carry essentials, and choose Gatwick or Heathrow if you need more room for travel.
For most shoppers, Roka’s strength is that the bags are easy to use every day. They are stylish without being delicate, practical without looking too technical, and versatile enough for work, weekends and travel.
View the full Roka London bags collection.
Roka backpack FAQs
Are Roka backpacks good quality?
Yes. Roka backpacks are popular because they feel well made for everyday use, with durable fabric, secure zips, practical pockets and comfortable straps.
Are Roka backpacks waterproof?
Roka backpacks are weather-resistant rather than fully waterproof. They are suitable for light rain and everyday conditions but not prolonged heavy rain or submersion.
Which Roka bag is best for work?
For work, look at Bantry or Canfield backpacks first. Choose the size based on whether you need to carry a laptop, tablet, notebook, lunch or extra layers.
Which Roka bag is best for travel?
For travel, Roka Gatwick and Heathrow styles are better if you need more capacity. For sightseeing or hands-free essentials, a crossbody bag can be more convenient.
Are Roka bags vegan?
Yes, Roka bags are made using vegan-friendly materials.
Are Roka bags made from recycled materials?
Many Roka bags are made using recycled materials, including recycled plastic bottles, which is one of the brand’s key sustainability features.