The Best Small Backpacks We've Tested: Top Reviews By Experts

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Best small backpacks
Best small backpacks

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: The North Face Women's Jester Backpack, Marron Purple/Pink Clay

The North Face Women's Jester Backpack is a classic backpack redesigned to be a modern and functional daypack. This must-have day pack features a padded laptop sleeve, simplified organization, and can stand up completely unsupported. The FlexVent system also features an injection-molded yoke built from a flexible shoulder strap, a padded mesh back panel, and breathable lumbar panel for comfortable ventilated support. Read Review

2. Runner Up: NIKE Brasilia Mesh Backpack 9.0, Black/Black/White, One Size

Nike Brasilia Mesh Backpack 9.0 is your new go-to pack for everything from school to the gym. Made with a durable, breathable fabric, this bag features a roomy main compartment and two front pockets for quick access to whatever you need. Read Review

3. Best Reliable: JanSport Cool Student 15-Inch Laptop Backpack - Classic School Bag

The JanSport Cool Student 15-Inch Laptop Backpack is perfect for school and beyond. Featuring a classic design with leather bottom, ergonomically constructed with S-curve shoulder straps, padded back panel and web haul handle grip. Additionally, this JanSport laptop bag is machine washable. Read Review

4. Best Comfortable: Nike Brasilia Medium Training Backpack, Nike Backpack

Secure your gear with Nike Brasilia Medium Training Backpack. This travel-friendly backpack for men and women features a main zipper compartment with spacious and secure storage when you're away from your locker, gym or home. It also has interior pockets for smaller valuables, such as headphones or electronics. Read Review

Having a good bag for your excursions is now more important than ever. Small changes can make a huge impact on how you spend your free time. Besides, small backpacks have become an essential accessory that fits any style and any outfit. They are highly versatile, so no matter what kind of activity you’re planning – hiking, camping, traveling – you can always find a backpack that will fit the bill.

Read on to discover some of the best small backpacks available today. They are functional and stylish; they come in a variety of different sizes and designs; they have a wide range of features, and many come with convenient storage space as well as compartments for storing smaller accessories like water bottles or sunglasses. On top of that, some are also available at a budget-friendly price point making them even more attractive than before.

We think the product that comes highly recommended for best small backpacks is The North Face Women's Jester Backpack, Marron Purple/Pink Clay. In case you need more alternatives and more in-depth guidance, you may explore the following.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 The North Face Women's Jester Backpack, Marron Purple/Pink Clay
Our Score:
9.7
THE NORTH FACE
  • TOTAL ORGANIZATION. A front compartment simplifies organization while maintaining storage essentials with secure-zip pockets, a tablet sleeve and a key fob. On the outside, it has two water bottle pockets and a front bungee system for additional storage.
  • TECH SPECS. Dimensions: 11" x 6.75" x 17.25" (27.9cm x 17.1cm x 43.8cm). Laptop Sleeve: 12.75" x 11" (32.4cm x 27.9cm). Volume: 22 L. Fabric: 600D or 300D Recycled Polyester with non-PFC Durable Water Repellent Finish, depending on colorway.
  • JESTER CLASSIC. Our classic Jester pack received a modern update: now with a padded laptop sleeve, simplified organization, and can stand up completely unsupported. Oh, and it also has a sought-after endorsement from the American Chiropractic Association.
  • FLEXVENT TECHNOLOGY. The FlexVent suspension system features a flexible yoke built from custom injection-molded and flexible shoulder straps, a padded mesh back panel and a breathable lumbar panel for comfortable, ventilated support.
  • CAMPUS READY. A huge main compartment holds all your books for a day on campus and contains a padded laptop sleeve to protect your computer from bumps and falls. Top handles allow for easy grabbing, and a sternum strap provides extra support.
  • Sports Apparel
  • Country Of Origin: Indonesia
  • From The Brand: Nike
  • Size Value: Misc
  • ORGANIZATION MADE EASY – Simple & convenient design, 2 spacious compartments, 15" laptop sleeve, front utility pocket with an organizer and a side water bottle pocket
  • AMERICAN TRADITION IN BACKPACKS – Generations have grown up & come to rely on this trusted brand. Over 50 years of schools, work, & adventure
  • Care instructions: Hand Wash
  • THE ICONIC DESIGN – The Cool Student Backpack has our signature leather bottom, ergonomically constructed with S-curve shoulder straps, padded back panel & a web haul handle
  • RELIABLE BACKPACK - JanSport backpacks are made with durable fabric, zippers & straps in colors & designs to reflect your style
  • Sport type: Outdoor Lifestyle
  • INTERIOR POCKETS: The backpack for men and women has a plush-lined interior laptop pocket and additional storage for smaller valuables, such as headphones or electronics.
  • SECURE STORAGE: The backpack for women and men offers a main zipper compartment with spacious and secure storage when you're away from your locker, gym or home.
  • PADDED COMFORT: An athletic or school backpack with a padded back panel and shoulder straps, offering a more comfortable carrying experience.
  • DURABLE DESIGN: The medium-sized Nike Brasilia backpack is ideal for packing everything you need to get you through a day of training.
  • WATER-RESISTANT COATING: The Nike backpack has a water resistant coating on the bottom panel that helps keep your gear dry.
  • Increased shoulder strap foam padding creates Sweet Spot comfort zone
  • Quick access expandable phone pocket
  • Capacity-1800 Cubic Inches. Recommended Use-Business, College, School, Golf. Laptop Pocket-15.5 H x 10.5 W x 1 D inches.Sewn-in EVA molded compartment that protects your fragile items and valuable electronic devices
  • Weight : 3.5 pounds
  • Two zippered side utility pockets
  • ROOMY: 16 L of storage space for everything you need and some things you don't. Measures 14.9" (38 cm) x 10.6" (27 cm) x 5.1" (13 cm). Weighs 0.7 lb.
  • FUNCTIONAL: Two-way zipper with rain flap for protection. Ergonomic shoulder straps for the long haul. Dual top snap handles for quick carry. Sitting pad for impromptu seating. Reflective logo.
  • ICONIC: Same classic Kanken design since 1978. Stash everyday essentials in the main zippered compartment, front zippered pocket, and two open side pockets.
  • PRACTICAL: Meet the material: Vinylon F. It has a weird name but it's dirt-resistant, water-resistant, and wipes clean.
  • HERITAGE: Durable, timeless, functional. Since 1960.
  • ORGANIZED DESIGN. A front compartment simplifies organization while maintaining essential features for storage with secure-zip pockets, a tablet sleeve and a key fob. On the outside, it has two water bottle pockets and a daisy chain for added lash points.
  • TECH SPECS. Dimensions: 11" x 8.5" x 18" (27.9cm x 21.6cm x 45.7cm). Laptop Sleeve: 11.5" x 11" (29.2cm x 27.9cm). Volume: 26 Liters. Fabric: 600D recycled polyester with non-PFC durable water-repellent finish.
  • VAULT CLASSIC. The much-loved Vault pack has a modern aesthetic, a water-repellent finish, and the ability to stand unsupported, and it's endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association.
  • FLEX VENT TECHNOLOGY. The FlexVent suspension system features a flexible yoke built from custom injection-molded and flexible shoulder straps, a padded mesh back panel and a breathable lumbar panel for comfortable, ventilated support.
  • CAMPUS READY. A huge main compartment holds all your books for a day on campus and contains a padded laptop sleeve to protect your computer from bumps and falls. Top handles allow for easy grabbing, and a sternum strap provides extra support.
  • This product is made with recycled content as part of our ambition to end plastic waste.
  • Wipe-able material for easy spot cleaning with soap and water.
  • 5 outside zippered pockets, and internal zippered organization pocket.
  • LoadSpring shoulder straps help ease the weight.
  • Lifetime warranty.
  • STYLISH, LIGHTWEIGHT and SIZED RIGHT -- The Campus Backpack measures 16 inches high, 11 inches wide, and 8 inch deep with a 3 inch Top handle drop and 32 inch adjustable straps, with a trolley sleeve for smooth travels
  • HASSLE FREE COMMUTE -- The Vera Bradley Campus Backpack is made from quilted, sleek, water-repellent polyester, and features 2 zip pockets, 2 side slip pockets, and a hidden back zip pocket so you can travel with ease and arrive in style
  • ENDLESS ORGANIZATION -- The front zip compartment features 4 slip pockets, 3 pen slip pockets and an ID window to keep your essential supplies organized and quick to access
  • CHIC and SECURE -- Keep your tech essentials safe with 2 interior mesh slip pockets that work as laptop or tablet compartments for work or school - add in the zippered top closure and fully printed polyester lining and you're ready to conquer the day
  • PERFORMANCE TWILL -- This weather-friendly, water-repellent fabric is durable and lightweight for everyday use
  • BOREALIS CLASSIC. Our much-loved Borealis pack has been scaled down for city life. This small 10-liter version features easy-access organization, our super-comfy FlexVent suspension and a proud recommendation from the American Chiropractic Association.
  • TOTAL ORGANIZATION. Two external water bottle pockets double as multi-use pockets. The main compartment has an extra padded tablet sleeve and internal pocket. Plus, external bungee-compression system offers more options for organization.
  • TECH SPECS. Dimensions: 8.65" x 4.15" x 13.5" (22 cm x 10.5 cm x 34.3 cm). Tablet Sleeve: 9" x 8.65" (22.9 cm x 22 cm). Volume: 10 Liters. Fabric: Non-PFC durable water-repellent (non-PFC DWR) finish, fabric differs by colorway.
  • FLEX VENT TECHNOLOGY. The FlexVent suspension system features a flexible yoke built from custom injection-molded and flexible shoulder straps, a padded mesh back panel and a breathable lumbar panel for comfortable, ventilated support.
  • COMFORTABLE CARRY. For everyday use, travel and everything in between, this backpack features U-pull zippers for easy grabbing.

What to Look For in a best small backpacks?

Maybe you should feel overwhelmed by the number of options available to you when it decides to purchase best small backpacks in 2024? Visitors can't help but question if a better option is available. Well, we have some key items which will produce positive outcomes while also saving you time & expense.

You need to have an objective view of what you are interested in the product you are looking to buy. To choose a satisfactory best small backpacks, the factors related to the product, you need to consider carefully below points.

Security

Pickpockets can target foreign travelers, making it more difficult to avoid being attacked in bus stations and airports. Make sure you have two zips you can lock together in the bag that you choose. Some bags have a lockable mesh you can use to wrap the bag and attach it to something larger so no one else takes it.

Ergonomic Carrying Options

Comfortable backpack carrying is essential, particularly if your travels involve a lot of walking and hiking. You can carry the backpack on your back, so your arms and shoulders aren't burdened. Make sure the backpack you select allows you to leave your hotel room whenever you like without putting your arms strain.

Budget

We don't advocate buying something you cannot afford. However, it is important to avoid purchasing the most expensive option.
There is a direct correlation between quality and price. You don't want your bag ripping open or all of your stuff spilling onto the streets. You don't need to spend more for high-quality backpacks, although they will be more expensive.

Size & Design

Once you have decided on your main purpose for your backpack (or what you need it to hold), you can get a good idea of the dimensions or the capacity of the bag.
Different sizes and designs will be used for different purposes.
A backpack for everyday use that holds 20-24 liters of water should suffice.
Some bags can be stiff while others are more flexible behind the back.
Last but not least, the style (color, or print) that you choose for your bag should reflect your personal taste. However, it can also be used to transition from one location to the next.

Weight

Not only does it matter how heavy your items are, but so is the backpack. Lightweight backpacks are better as they will lower your overall back weight. But don't sacrifice strength. You should choose a lightweight backpack but one with enough strength.

Durability

Your backpack's durability will depend on the material it is made from, as well as how it is packed and taken care of.
The size of the backpack is measured in liters. It is also related to the load it can support (measured in kilograms).

Comfort

Comfort is key. Make sure to look for contoured and padded back panels as well as padded straps to make sure your trip is comfortable.
You should also look out for waist and chest straps. They will help distribute the bag's weight, and prevent back pain.
Anatomical hand-straps are also useful for when you need to keep your bag in one hand while on the subway, bus or train.

Material

Sturdy backpacks will be made from a mixture of nylon heavy duty and YKK zips that are water-repellent. Avoid plastic zippers.
Polyester and canvas can also be very tough and resistant to water.

Organization

Some backpacks have no interior. Many backpacks are well-organized with many pockets and compartments.
For a lightweight backpack, you might choose a simpler design. However, you can also have multiple pockets to keep your essentials organized and easy access. You will find your belongings more easily distributed and accessible if there are many pockets and compartments in your backpack.

FAQs

Are All Backpacks Equipped With Compression Cords Inside?

This isn't the usual practice for backpacks. The compression cords are useful for packing and can be used in the same manner as a normal suitcase's compression strap. These are often included in some travel backpacks. If you want to pack more, invest in packing cubes. They will also help you organize your backpack.

Are Backpacks Unisex?

Most backpacks can be used by both men and women. However, some brands offer modified versions for women. The backpack can be used to carry books, phone chargers and other small items, such as laptops, tablet computers, smartphones, and tablets. Many well-known brands have separate designs for men and women, with sizes. You will find the perfect backpack for you.

Do You Think It Is Unprofessional To Have A Backpack?

Not at all!
The backpack is a convenient and efficient way to transport all your daily essentials. It is important to find one that matches the style of your workplace.

Can You Wash Backpacks?

The type of backpack can be washed. You can wash a backpack made from nylon or canvas in the washing machine. Leather bags, on the other hand, cannot be washed in a washing machine. You will have to clean them with a leather cleaner. You can either put the bag in a laundry bag, or you can turn it inside-out and wash the bag in the washing machine with a gentle cycle.

Which Backpack Is Best For Daily Use?

This question is dependent on many factors, including your style preferences, budget and the features you need for daily life. We know it's difficult to choose the right backpack for you, so we created this comprehensive guide.

What Is An Anti-theft Backpack?

Anti-theft backpacks can be found in many stores. This means that it is more difficult for anyone else to access your bag. Many backpacks come with zippers which allow you to access the main compartment from your bag while it's on. This means you won't need to remove it and put it in danger of someone picking it up. Some backpacks have webbing that covers the zipper openings. This makes it difficult for anyone to find and zip the bag.

Do I Really Need A Hip Harness?

This is an important feature to own if you intend on backpacking for long distances or hiking. This feature will distribute your backpack's weight more evenly across your body and provide you with greater comfort. This feature is standard on backpacks designed for outdoor adventure.

How Do I Clean My Backpack Properly?

The material of your backpack will affect the amount of cleaning needed. Nylon and water-resistant materials can be cleaned with a damp cloth. To maintain leather backpacks' integrity, it is a good idea to use a leather conditioner and cleaner. A damp cloth is sufficient for bags with metal or plastic elements.

What Is The Average Life Expectancy Of Backpacks?

Material and design are key factors in the durability of backpacks. For education, a high-quality backpack can last for 3 to 4 years with a custom design. If you only use the backpack while on vacation, it can last even longer. A good backpack will last longer if you clean it regularly and don't use any harsh cleaning methods.

Conclusion

The buying guide for best small backpacks for your requirement is available on the website. It will assist you in determining what to purchase and how much of it to purchase! We hope this article has assisted you in incorporating some neuroscience guidelines into your shopping decision. If you don't find anything in the above list, you can make another purchase with Carhartt Trade Series Backpack, Black.

If some of this sounds intimidating, or if you really want more details on the strategies mentioned in this blog post, please contact us.


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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