Introduction
A big backpack is not always the best choice.
Sometimes I only need a few daily items. My phone, wallet, keys, water bottle, sunglasses, and a few small things are enough. Carrying a large backpack for that feels like too much.
That is where a sling bag can help.
The WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack Sling Bag Travel Hiking Chest Bag Daypack in Black is made for this type of use. It has a compact shape, several pockets, a crossbody design, and a wide adjustable shoulder strap.
It can work for travel, hiking, walking, commuting, theme parks, and daily trips.
But it is not a full-size backpack.
Its smaller design is also its main limit. So, the real question is simple: Is the WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack a good choice for everyday carry and travel?
After looking closely at its design, storage, comfort, and user feedback, I think it is a strong option for people who want a small bag without giving up useful storage.
Here is my full WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack Sling Bag Travel Hiking Chest Bag Daypack (Black) reviews guide.

WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack Review
The WATERFLY sling backpack has a simple idea.
It gives you the storage of a small daypack while keeping the easy carry style of a sling bag.
Instead of using two shoulder straps, it uses one wide strap. You can wear the bag across your chest or move it around your back.
This makes it easy to reach your things.
The black color also keeps the design simple. It does not look too sporty or too formal. That makes it useful for many situations.
I like this type of design for travel because I do not always want a large backpack on my back.
The bag is also lightweight. That matters when you already have enough things to carry.
Design and Build Quality
The WATERFLY sling backpack has a soft, compact design.
It uses polyester material and is made for regular travel and outdoor use. The fabric feels more practical than fancy. That is a good thing for a bag like this.
I would rather have a simple bag that I can use without worrying about every small mark.
The black version is also easy to match with casual clothes.
The overall build feels focused on daily use. The zippers and pockets are placed where they are easy to reach.
The bag is not designed to replace a large hiking backpack. Instead, it is better for light loads.
That makes its purpose clear.
You get a smaller bag that is easier to carry when you do not need a lot of gear.
Storage and Pocket Layout
Storage is one of the best parts of this WATERFLY sling bag.
The bag has several separate pockets and compartments. This helps keep small items from becoming one big mess.
You can separate things like:
- Phone
- Wallet
- Keys
- Passport
- Sunglasses
- Small notebook
- Snacks
- Chargers
- Headphones
- Small personal items
There are also side mesh pockets that can be used for a water bottle or similar items.
The exact amount you can carry will depend on the size of your items.
This is important.
The bag may look small from the outside, but its pocket layout makes good use of the available space.
I especially like this approach for travel.
Instead of putting everything into one large pocket, you can give each item its own place.
That can make a big difference when you are moving around a busy airport, city, park, or trail.
Is the WATERFLY Sling Backpack Comfortable?
Comfort is very important with a one-strap bag.
A poorly designed sling can pull on one shoulder. That can become annoying after a few hours.
The WATERFLY uses a relatively wide adjustable strap.
This helps spread the weight better than a very thin strap.
The strap can also be adjusted to fit different body sizes.
You can wear the bag higher or lower depending on what feels best.
Another useful feature is the ability to move the bag around your body.
When you need something, you can bring the bag from your back to your front.
You do not always need to remove the whole bag.
That is one of the main reasons I like sling-style bags for travel.
Still, comfort depends on how much you put inside.
A light load should feel much better than a heavily packed bag.
If you fill every pocket with heavy items, the one-shoulder design will naturally put more pressure on one side of your body.
Travel Use
This is where the WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack makes the most sense.
It is a useful size for travel days when you want to keep important items close.
For example, you could carry your passport, phone, wallet, keys, water bottle, sunglasses, and other small items.
Wearing it across your chest can also make it easier to keep an eye on your belongings.
That can be useful in airports, busy streets, public transportation, markets, and tourist areas.
It also leaves both hands free.
That sounds like a small benefit, but it matters when traveling.
You can pull a suitcase, take photos, hold a drink, check a map, or open a door without having a large backpack getting in the way.
For short trips and day tours, this design makes a lot of sense.
Hiking and Outdoor Use
The WATERFLY sling bag can also work for light hiking.
It gives you enough room for basic items without the bulk of a large backpack.
You could carry:
- Water
- Snacks
- Phone
- Keys
- Sunglasses
- Small first-aid items
- Sunscreen
- Small accessories
The side pockets can also be useful when you want quick access to a bottle.
However, I would not treat this as a serious hiking pack.
If you need hiking gear, extra clothing, large water supplies, or other bulky equipment, a proper two-strap hiking backpack will be a better choice.
The WATERFLY is best for short walks, casual trails, sightseeing, and light outdoor activities.
Daily Use
This bag is not only for travel.
It can also work well as an everyday carry bag.
For example, you could use it for:
- Walking
- Shopping
- Commuting
- College
- Theme parks
- Festivals
- Cycling
- Casual outdoor activities
The small size is actually useful here.
A normal backpack can feel too large when you only need a few things.
This sling gives you a middle option.
It is larger than a simple waist pack but smaller than a traditional backpack.
That makes it a practical choice for people who want more room without carrying a large bag.
Water Resistance
The WATERFLY sling backpack is designed to be water resistant.
That is useful for light rain and everyday outdoor use.
But water resistant does not mean completely waterproof.
I would not depend on this bag to protect valuable electronics during heavy rain for a long period.
If you are carrying a phone, camera, tablet, or other sensitive item in bad weather, extra protection is still a smart idea.
For normal daily use, light rain, and accidental splashes, the water-resistant design can be helpful.
Strap Phone Pocket
One feature that stands out is the small pocket built into the shoulder strap.
This can be useful for quick-access items.
A phone is an obvious choice.
Instead of opening the main bag every time you need your phone, you can keep it closer to your chest.
This can be handy while walking or traveling.
However, this pocket may not be perfect for everyone.
Depending on how you wear the bag and how your body is shaped, the strap pocket can sit closer to your neck or chin than expected.
So, this is one feature that I would call useful but personal.
Some people may love it.
Others may prefer a cleaner strap without an extra pocket.
What I Like About the WATERFLY Sling Backpack
Compact Size
The bag does not feel like a large backpack.
It is easier to carry when you only need daily essentials.
Lots of Storage
The multiple compartments help keep small items organized.
Easy Access
You can move the bag around your body instead of taking it off every time you need something.
Adjustable Strap
The strap can be adjusted to fit different users and carrying positions.
Useful for Travel
It works well for sightseeing, airports, city trips, and other situations where you want important items close.
Lightweight Design
The lighter construction makes it easier to carry than many larger backpacks.
Simple Black Look
The black color is easy to match with casual clothes and does not look overly flashy.
Water-Resistant Material
The material provides some protection from light rain and splashes.
What I Don’t Like About the WATERFLY Sling Backpack
Not a Large Backpack
The compact size means there is a limit to what you can carry.
It is not designed for large laptops, lots of clothing, or heavy hiking gear.
One-Shoulder Carry
A sling bag puts most of its weight on one side.
That can become uncomfortable if you carry heavy items for a long time.
Water Bottle Pockets Are Limited
The side pockets are useful, but larger bottles may not fit well.
Strap Pocket May Feel Awkward
The extra strap pocket is useful for some people, but its position may not feel perfect for everyone.
Access Can Take Some Practice
The bag has several pockets and zippers.
At first, it may take some time to learn where everything is.
WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight design | Not suitable for large loads |
| Multiple pockets | One-shoulder carry |
| Adjustable strap | Larger bottles may not fit well |
| Easy to move from back to front | Strap pocket may feel awkward |
| Good for travel | Not a replacement for a full hiking backpack |
| Useful for daily carry | Limited space for bulky items |
| Water-resistant material | Not fully waterproof |
| Simple black design | Heavy packing can reduce comfort |
Who Should Buy the WATERFLY Sling Backpack?
I think this bag makes the most sense for people who want a small everyday carry bag.
It is especially useful for travelers.
If you often visit cities, theme parks, airports, museums, markets, or tourist areas, the crossbody design can be very convenient.
It is also a good option for people who dislike large backpacks.
You get useful storage without carrying a big pack.
It can also work well for light hiking and walking.
If your daily load is mostly small personal items, this bag should give you enough space.
Who Should Skip It?
I would skip this bag if you need to carry a lot of gear.
For example, it may not be the right choice if you regularly carry:
- A full-size laptop
- Large camera equipment
- Extra clothing
- Heavy books
- Large hiking equipment
- Several large water bottles
A larger backpack will be better for those needs.
I would also think twice if you dislike carrying weight on one shoulder.
A traditional two-strap backpack will usually provide better weight distribution.
WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack for Men
The simple black design works well for men who want a smaller alternative to a regular backpack.
It can hold daily essentials without looking like a large travel pack.
It is useful for travel, work-related errands, walking, and casual outdoor activities.
The adjustable strap also helps make the fit more flexible.
For men who prefer a light everyday carry setup, this can be a practical option.
WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack for Women
The bag can also work well for women who want an alternative to a traditional purse.
It provides several compartments and leaves both hands free.
That can be useful when traveling or walking around busy places.
The smaller design also makes it easier to carry than a large backpack.
It is a good choice for someone who wants a casual bag with more organization than a simple purse or waist pack.
Is the WATERFLY Sling Backpack Good for Travel?
Yes.
Travel is one of its strongest use cases.
The compact body is easy to carry.
The crossbody design keeps the bag close to your body.
The multiple pockets help organize important items.
And you can move the bag to the front when you need quick access.
For short trips, city tours, theme parks, and sightseeing, I think the design makes a lot of sense.
The main thing to remember is its size.
Pack only what you really need.
Is the WATERFLY Sling Backpack Good for Hiking?
For light hiking, yes.
It can carry basic hiking essentials without the bulk of a full backpack.
It is better for short walks and simple trails than serious outdoor trips.
If you need lots of water, clothing, food, or hiking equipment, choose a larger hiking backpack instead.
Is the WATERFLY Sling Backpack Waterproof?
No.
It is better described as water resistant.
That means it can handle some light moisture, but it should not be treated as a fully waterproof bag.
For heavy rain, I would use an additional waterproof cover or protect sensitive electronics separately.
How Much Can the WATERFLY Sling Backpack Hold?
For its size, it can hold a useful amount.
The multiple pockets help make the most of the available space.
You can carry normal daily items such as a phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses, snacks, small accessories, and a water bottle.
But it is still a compact sling backpack.
Trying to fill it with large or heavy items will reduce comfort.
The best results come from using it for essentials.
Is the WATERFLY Sling Backpack Comfortable for Long Trips?
It can be comfortable for long periods when packed lightly.
The wide adjustable strap helps.
The ability to change the bag’s position also helps when you need a different carrying angle.
However, it is still a one-shoulder bag.
If you carry heavy items for many hours, a traditional backpack may feel better.
So, I would say the WATERFLY is best when you keep the load light.
Final Verdict
The WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack Sling Bag Travel Hiking Chest Bag Daypack (Black) is a practical small bag for people who want easy storage without carrying a full-size backpack.
Its biggest strengths are the compact design, multiple pockets, adjustable strap, lightweight feel, and easy access.
It works especially well for travel and daily activities.
I also like that you can move it from your back to your front when you need something.
That makes it useful in crowded places.
The biggest weakness is its size.
It cannot replace a large backpack.
The one-shoulder design can also become less comfortable when the bag is heavily packed.
So, my overall view is simple:
If you want a lightweight sling backpack for travel, walking, sightseeing, light hiking, and everyday essentials, the WATERFLY is a strong choice.
If you need to carry heavy gear or large items, look for a larger two-strap backpack instead.
For the right user, this bag offers a nice balance between size, storage, comfort, and convenience.
Final Rating: 4.5/5
Best for: Travel, sightseeing, daily carry, walking, light hiking, theme parks, and commuting.
Not ideal for: Heavy loads, large laptops, serious hiking, or carrying lots of bulky gear.
WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack FAQs
Is the WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack worth buying?
Yes, if you need a compact bag for daily essentials and travel. Its multiple pockets and adjustable sling design make it useful for light carry.
Can I use the WATERFLY sling bag every day?
Yes. Its compact size makes it suitable for daily walking, commuting, shopping, casual trips, and other everyday activities.
Can the WATERFLY sling bag hold a water bottle?
Yes. It has side pockets designed for items such as water bottles. However, the fit will depend on the bottle size.
Can I wear the WATERFLY sling backpack on either side?
The adjustable design allows flexible carrying positions, making it easier to use across the body or move the bag from one side to another.
Is the black WATERFLY sling backpack unisex?
Yes. The simple black design works well for both men and women.
Is this bag good for international travel?
Yes. Its compact shape and crossbody design make it useful for sightseeing, airports, public transportation, and busy tourist areas.
Can it fit a tablet?
It depends on the tablet size and the exact model or version of the bag. The WATERFLY sling is better suited to smaller personal electronics than large devices.
Does the WATERFLY sling backpack have many pockets?
Yes. Multiple pockets and compartments are one of its main advantages. They help separate small items and keep the bag organized.
Is the WATERFLY bag good for theme parks?
Yes. It can be a convenient option for carrying a phone, wallet, sunglasses, snacks, water, and other small essentials while keeping your hands free.
Can I use it for biking?
It can work for casual biking and light rides. However, make sure the strap is adjusted securely before riding.
Does the bag protect items from rain?
The material is water resistant, but the bag is not fully waterproof. Heavy rain may still allow water to reach the contents.
Is the WATERFLY sling backpack good for hiking?
It is good for light hiking and short outdoor trips. For long hikes with heavy gear, a larger hiking backpack would be a better choice.
What is the main advantage of this WATERFLY sling bag?
The biggest advantage is the combination of compact size and useful storage. You get more organization than a small waist pack without the bulk of a regular backpack.
What is the biggest disadvantage?
The biggest limitation is capacity. It is designed for essentials, not large or heavy loads.
What is the WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack ASIN?
The ASIN provided for this product is B07T5D98RW.
