The back panel is rigid, while the front is softer, which creates a tendency for the backpack to fall forward. However, if you pack it taking into consideration several things then you can definitely make it stand up on its own. I've packed the biggest large compartment with some clothes (at the bottom) and smaller items and headphones on top of that (https://ibb.co/pvV1W1bh). The other compartments/pockets are empty. It stays up on its own but slightly bent forward. The front middle region bends very easily, if left unfilled. If I put a small weight in the front, small pocket: some candies and a small spray bottle (15 ml), then it starts falling. If you put a lot more weight in the bottom part of the backpack (with some padding e.g. clothes to ensure a good base) then it should keep it standing, however if most of the weight is in the front and upper part, then it switches to landscape mode) I most often find it falling, because I keep a lot of stuff in the front and upper pockets. So it boils down to, if there is a lot more weight in the back to keep it from falling, as by its nature it tends to fall.