Review: Unpacking the Helly Hansen Barcode Backpack

Helly Hansen Barcode Backpack Offers a Premium Storage Experience

While Helly Hansen specializes more in workwear than storage, their backpack lineup is growing for 2025. The brand’s latest bag venture is the Barcode Backpack, which promises a premium storage experience and even implements some handy jobsite-ready features. So, what makes the Helly Hansen Barcode backpack stand out in the saturated storage market? I got my hands on one to walk you through my experience.

Note: Looking for more jobsite storage? Check out our top picks for the Best Tool Bags and Best Tool Boxes!

Helly Hansen Barcode Backpack Overview

• Material: 100% polyester (recycled)
• Sizes: 20L & 35L
• TSA carry-on compatible
• Padded laptop compartment
• Padded shoulder straps
• YKK zippers
• Helmet holder
• ID card loop
• Water-resistant fabric
• Luggage strap

Capacity and Storage

There are two sizes for the Barcode backpack: 20L and 35L. The model I am reviewing is the smaller of the two. However, its storage capabilities are just as impressive as larger bags I have used.

The 20L bag is incredibly lightweight, at just 1.76 pounds. The 35L backpack is also lightweight, even with the added capacity, weighing in at 2.5 pounds. The lightweight design is due to their 100% polyester construction, which has the added benefit of keeping your gear dry thanks to a water-resistant construction.

Because of the Barcode backpack’s versatility, it’s difficult to definitively say if there’s a specific lifestyle it fits the most. However, there are a couple of jobsite-friendly features that make it especially useful for those in the trades. There’s an integrated hardhat/helmet holder located in the very bottom pouch, which folds out and connects to two loops at the top of the bag.

When you’re not using the helmet holder, you can tuck it back into its pouch to keep it out of the way. (So much out of the way, that it took me a few seconds to discover where it was when I first got my hands on it!)

Additionally, an ID loop keeps your ID card close without needing to unpack your equipment to reach it.

Pockets

In total, there are four storage pockets, all secured with YKK zippers. The top pocket is shallow, ideal for hand tools, gloves, and/or other small gear. The main compartment features a dedicated padded laptop compartment, as well as a mesh inner pouch for additional storage.

On the front, the larger of the two pockets has a soft fabric lining, and the front bottom pocket is great for storing other small materials and accessories.

There are also elastic pockets on both sides of the backpack to hold bottles, hand tools, and other gear.

Fit and Comfort

As mentioned above, this backpack is very lightweight when unpacked. However, to help ease the burden of your equipment, the Barcode backpack has some welcome comfort features.

First, like many backpacks, you get padded shoulder straps that you can adjust to your preferred length. The shoulder straps, as well as the back panel, are equipped with an air mesh lining for improved ventilation and comfort.

There’s also a horizontal strap across the back to secure over the telescoping handle of a rolling bag while you’re traveling. 

Helly Hansen Barcode Backpack Price

This backpack comes in two sizes: 20L ($140) and 35L ($175). Both sizes are available in the 990 Black colorway, and you can find them directly through Helly Hansen.

Final Thoughts

Helly Hansen designed the Barcode to be ultra-versatile, and its functionality shows that off very well. At the same time, its minimalist design is very easy on the eye. I do wish there were more color options for those who prefer something other than all-black, but there’s no question that it’s sleek. Plus, there are two sizes, so those needing to carry more can upgrade to the 35L pack.

However, being a premium backpack, the Barcode has a price tag to match, so it might be a bit limiting if you’re on a tighter budget.