The 13 Best Backpack Brands of 2023

Suitcase replacement on a round-the-world backpacking adventure . Rugged protector of your laptop and other valuables on the urban commute. Part overnight bag, part fashion statement. There are countless uses for a backpack, and almost as many brands manufacture them. To help you narrow your search for the ideal pack for your particular purpose, we decided to review some of the industry’s best names. They are brands whose products stand out for their durable materials, intelligent design, prices, warranties, and often unique selling points that range from flawless sustainability to versatile expansion options or 100 percent waterproofing.

Best Overall

Patagonia

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View On Patagonia.com

View On REI

What We Like

• Wide variety

• Great warranty backs all products

• Focus on sustainability

What We Don’t Like

• More expensive than counterparts

Founded in 1973, Ventura, California-based outdoor equipment manufacturer, Patagonia is one of the most trusted brands in the business. Its backpack range is hugely diverse, from convenient daypacks with reinforced laptop compartments to oversized hiking packs and technical packs developed especially for extreme sports, such as the SnowDrifter Pack (price at time of publication: $159). Common materials include recycled ripstop polyester and nylon, often with a laminate lining for extra weather resistance. The Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack (price at time of publication: $99) is a versatile 27-liter pack that offers multiple carrying methods, a sternum strap, and stuffs down into its own pocket when not in use.

Expect clever compartments and stash pockets, external grip handles, and daisy chains for lashing gear onto the outside of your pack. Patagonia also stands out for its commitment to sustainability, using Fair Trade Certified labor and recycled materials across 87 percent of its line. Best of all, 1 percent of all sales go toward preserving the environment. Another planet-friendly priority? Making products built to last a lifetime. But if they don’t, Patagonia welcomes those products back and provides a lifetime warranty through the brand’s Ironclad Guarantee.

Warranty: All products are covered by Ironclad Guarantee against defects | Return Policy: Unlimited for sale and new items, in new conditions with tags

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey

Osprey

View On Osprey.com

What We Like

• Packs for any adventure

• Continuing improvement in green standards

• Focus on philanthropy

What We Don’t Like

• Requires investment

Unlike Patagonia, which has its roots in climbing and mountaineering gear and then branched out to packs and luggage, Osprey launched in 1974 as a backpack brand. Patagonia started making gear in Ventura, while Osprey got its start several hours north on California’s coast in Santa Cruz. Founder Mike Pfotenhauer, his business partner, and his wife Diane Wren moved the company to southwest Colorado, where it employed its first expert sewers—a team of Navajo women.

The brand is still in Cortez, continuing its tradition of innovation and forward-thinking business practices. We love that Osprey makes high-quality packs for almost any travel and outdoor occasion. We also love that Osprey considers sustainability and eco-friendly practices, recently releasing its most planet-friendly pack yet, the Talon Earth 22 (price at time of publication: $200). We’re also looking forward to its first plus-size-focused backpacking line.

Warranty: All Mighty Guarantee covers all damages and defects | Return Policy: 60 days in new conditions with tags and packaging intact

Best Budget

Everest

Everest

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What We Like

• Simple backpacks for daily use

• Multiple colors

• Limited lifetime warranty

What We Don’t Like

• Must find a retailer

• Limited selection

Since 1982, Everest has been making everyday bags to suit the most modest budget. Products are simple yet reliable, and there are several different backpacks to choose from (although all of them follow the same classic outline). They range from the entry-level Basic Backpack—a mid-sized option with a spacious main compartment and a zippered front pocket—to models with added features ranging from mesh water bottle pockets to a durable suede bottom. 

Although prices vary depending on which retailer you choose (Everest is a wholesaler that doesn’t sell directly to individuals), the Basic Backpack generally retails for under $20, making it less than a tenth of the price of packs of a similar size sold by the more expensive brands on this list. All options feature sturdy, 600-denier polyester and are available in a rainbow of colors. Patterned Basic Backpacks are also offered.

Warranty: Simple As That Warranty covers defects for the life of the product | Return Policy: Varies according to the retailer

Best for Hiking

Deuter

Deuter

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What We Like

• Specialist packs for outdoor pursuits

• Generous repair program

• Ladies fit versions available

What We Don’t Like

• Limited urban choices

• Not the most affordable

Since 1898, Deuter has made products based on a passion for mountain sports. The brand focuses exclusively on backpacks and bags—a specialized approach that ensures each product has the utmost attention to detail. Options range from dependable all-rounders for those new to backpacking to ultralight hiking daypacks, maximum capacity expedition packs, and backpacks made specifically for sports such as trail-running, skiing, and mountaineering. We especially like the Aircontact Lite (price at time of publication: $190) for longer hikes thanks to its padded hip belt and expanding main compartment.

Like Patagonia, Deuter is renowned for backpacks built to last. Yours includes access to a lifelong repair service—and if the pack is deemed irreparable, you will be offered a replacement at no extra cost. The brand is also committed to ethical conduct, adhering to bluesign standards for environmental protection, occupational safety, and consumer protection. For example, all products have been free from harmful PFC-treated materials since 2020.

Warranty: Deuter’s Promise covers damages and defects | Return Policy: 30 days undamaged, unused in original packaging

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Best for Commuters

Timbuk2

Timbuk2

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What We Like

• Intelligent features for commuters

• Eco-friendly collection available

• Ethical materials

What We Don’t Like

• Limited crossover for adventure purposes

• Conditional lifetime warranty

If you need your backpack to get you from A to B in a city setting rather than in the great outdoors, Timbuk2 offers style and practicality in equal measure. Founded in 1989 by a San Francisco bike messenger, the brand’s original focus was to create the original messenger bag. It now offers a variety of bags for weekend to workday versatility—including a line of urban-inspired flap-top, roll-top, or clamshell-opening backpacks. If you are looking for a customizable commuter that doubles as a tough weekender, reach for the Tuck Laptop Backpack (price at time of publication: $89).

Several options are designed specifically for commuters, with features ranging from easy-access laptop compartments and key keepers to tricot-lined pockets for electronic devices and reflective panels for superior visibility on the road. Most include a removable cover for added wet weather protection. All Timbuk2 backpacks are covered by a limited lifetime warranty and use eco-friendly bluesign materials. For 100 percent recycled goodness, choose the Eco Lifestyle line—we like the sleek Vapor Sling Crossbody Bag (price at time of publication: $99).

Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty against defects | Return Policy: 30 days on ready-made items, unused with original tags

Best for Students

JanSport

JanSport

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What We Like

• Designed for students

• Multiple styles and colors

• Generous warranty

What We Don’t Like

• Not the most sustainable

• Not designed for specialist pursuits

Probably the most popular backpack brand on any school or university campus across the country, JanSport has been supplying students with their go-to backpack since the 1960s, when the brand launched the original SuperBreak (price at time of publication: $36 for russet red). These days, there are nearly 30 affordable models to choose from, and you can filter them on the JanSport website by feature. Examples include laptop sleeves, water bottle pockets, and abrasion-resistant bottoms. 

Out of a wide choice of colors and patterns, backpacks typically feature abundant space for all your books and accessories—although lightweight versions are also available for those with back or shoulder issues. You’ll stand out on campus with the Eco Mesh Pack (price at time of publication: $40). With two side pockets and a 15-inch laptop sleeve, it’s perfect for any student. In 2022, over 80 percent of JanSport backpacks used 100 percent recycled fabric for the main body of the bag, while the brand’s lifetime warranty promises to fix or replace any broken product, no questions asked. 

Warranty: Limited lifetime against defects | Return Policy: 60 days undamaged, unaltered, and unused

Best for Versatility

Tropicfeel

Tropicfeel

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What We Like

• Versatile enough for any use

• Most models expand significantly

• Carbon neutral company

What We Don’t Like

• Warranty only valid for two years

• Fewer models than in previous brands

Founded in 2017, Tropicfeel is a contemporary brand committed to inspiring conscious travel. To this end, their backpack models are as suitable for everyday use at school or in the city as they are on the trail. There are four models from which to choose. Three (Hive, Shell, and Nest) use intelligent organizers and add-ons to expand their capacity. For example, The Nest (price at time of publication: $199) can be used as a 16-liter daypack or a 30-liter adventure bag. 

This ability to adjust your backpack daily eliminates the need to purchase a separate one for every occasion—saving you money and helping to save the planet, too. Tropicfeel is also Climate Neutral Certified (meaning that it offsets all carbon emissions), while 100 percent of the nylon and 88 percent of the polyester they use is recycled. The only drawback? You won’t get the same lifetime warranty offered by more established brands.

Warranty: 2 years against defects | Return Policy: 30 days, new and unused

Best for Durability

GORUCK

GORUCK

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What We Like

• Strong waxed-canvas material

• Generous warranty guarantee

• Charitable partnerships

What We Don’t Like

• Expensive

• Not for ultralight backpacking

Founded by a couple with a background in the Special Forces and the CIA, GORUCK’s initial goal was to create a rucksack that could survive the harshest possible conditions. Now marketing itself as the manufacturer of “the world’s toughest gear,” the company offers a full range of backpacks suitable for everything from traveling the world to rucking (the practice of training with a weight on your back). For an incredibly durable carry-on, the GR2 Rucksack (price at time of publication: $395) is based on Special Forces medical packs and fits the majority of airlines’ size restrictions.

Most packs feature ultra-strong, ultra-durable duck canvas, which is given even greater strength and water resistance by a waxing process proven over the last 170 years. Shoulder straps come with extra padding for heavy loads, while YKK zippers are fitted with long-lasting parachute cord pulls. Many also feature a Bombproof Laptop Compartment with a false bottom for added protection. The brand’s Scars Lifetime Guarantee backs all products.

Warranty: Lifetime against defects and damage | Return Policy: 30 days in original condition, preferably with tags

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Best Waterproof

Rains

Rains

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What We Like

• Proprietary waterproof material

• Variety of styles and sizes

• 100 percent vegan

What We Don’t Like

• Short warranty period

If you live in a location defined by its frequent rainfall, you may need a backpack that’s not just water resistant but fully waterproof. Outerwear lifestyle brand Rains has just the solution, with a wide range of packs crafted out of a specially developed PU fabric that’s both PFC- and PVC-free. Like the brand’s clothing line, its bags combine superior functionality with an on-trend urban, unisex aesthetic. 

There are plenty of styles to choose from, from roll-top rucksacks that fasten with a buckle to flap-top cargo bags with multiple outer pockets and carabiner fastenings. The packs’ intended purposes are just as diverse. Choose the Mountaineer Bag (price at time of publication: $155) with its large main compartment, compression straps, and exterior bungee system for your next outdoor adventure or the fashion-forward Backpack Micro (price at time of publication: $95), with its internal laptop pocket and concealed external phone pocket, for a day out in the city.

Warranty: 2-year product warranty | Return Policy: 30 days for intact items

Best Sustainable

Terra Thread

Terra Thread

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What We Like

• Fair Trade-Certified practices

• Affordably priced

• Sales support Feeding America

What We Don’t Like

• Limited number of styles and functions

• Not water-resistant

While most of the brands on this list have committed to sustainability, it is the defining feature of ethical bag and backpack manufacturer Terra Thread. The company is entirely carbon neutral, offsetting carbon emissions by supporting reforestation and renewable energy initiatives. All products are created using Fairtrade organic cotton in a Fair Trade Certified factory that guarantees premium pay and safe conditions for its workers. 

The company is also B Corp Certified, meaning it meets the highest social and environmental responsibility standards. There are three backpack models to choose from in large, medium, and mini sizes. All are made from heavy-duty cotton canvas with a zippered external pocket, while the two larger packs include a laptop compartment and two water bottle sleeves. The smallest of the three, the Zem Mini Backpack (price at time of publication: $60), is the goldilocks of backpacks. At approximately 9 liters capacity, it’s small enough to go anywhere but large enough to be practical. Choose yours in a variety of bright colors and cute patterns.

Warranty: Not listed | Return Policy: 10 days in unused conditions, with tags attached

Best Style

Troubadour

Troubadour

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What We Like

• Packs transition easily from business to leisure

• Classic yet contemporary aesthetic

• Sustainable materials

What We Don’t Like

• High-end prices

• Short guarantee period

Troubadour is the result of two friends’ search for a bag that is refined enough for the boardroom, durable enough for outdoor use, and stylish enough for an urban getaway. Today, the brand offers a variety of bags, including backpacks, all with a clean, sophisticated aesthetic that prides itself on being “luxe but not loud, timeless but twenty-first century.” Available in classic colors such as navy, black, and khaki, backpacks come in various fashionable styles and sizes. Their Pioneer Backpack (price at time of publication: £275) perfectly encapsulates this ethos with its streamlined profile and full front-opening main compartment.

Some have concealed zippers for a seamless look, while others have contrasting gold zippers that make a statement all on their own. The backpacks are as functional as they are attractive, using waterproof fabrics and a lightweight design to maximum effect. Expect clever compartments, padded laptop sections, breathable back panels, and comfortable shoulder straps. Materials include recycled plastics and ethically-sourced leather.

Warranty: 5 years against defects | Return Policy: 100 days in new conditions with tags attached

Best Lightweight

Hyperlite

Hyperlite

View On Hyperlitemountaingear.com

What We Like

• Durable composite fabric

• Range of packs for specific applications

• Military/first responders discounts

What We Don’t Like

• Limited warranty for one year only

• Expensive

Hyperlite’s focus is ultralight adventures and the art of reducing the base weight of your gear to a bare minimum so that you have the energy to go further, faster, and longer. Aimed toward serious hikers and expeditionists, the brand sells everything from tents and apparel to sleeping pads and backpacks. Backpack models are assigned a list of recommended uses and ideal destinations to help you choose the best fit. 

Options include everything from the Northrim (price at time of publication: $450 for 3400)—ideal for backpacking and canyoneering—to the Ice Pack (price at time of publication: $359 for 2400), perfect for alpine climbing. There are also lower-volume daypacks for spontaneous hikes and up-and-down peak bagging adventures. All models are made from ultralight Dyneema Composite Fabric for the ultimate blend of lightness and durability, while features range from external mesh pockets to ice ax loops, depending on your choice.

Warranty: 1 year against defects | Return Policy: 30 days for new and unused products

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Best for Photographers

Lowepro

Lowepro

View On Lowepro.com

What We Like

• Exclusive focus on camera equipment

• Huge range of packs

• Complementary accessories available

What We Don’t Like

• Warranty is significantly limited

• No significant sustainability commitment

If you’re an avid photographer, you know it’s crucial to ensure your equipment is sufficiently protected while traveling. Lowepro has been making backpacks for camera enthusiasts for more than 50 years. All products are laboratory tested and designed with professional photographers to ensure peak performance. There are around 60 backpack models to choose from, with options to suit all set-ups—including hard-sided backpacks for drone pilots. One of these, the Pro Trekker RLX (price at time of publication: $470), converts from a backpack to a roller bag and fits one DSLR camera plus up to six extra lenses.

Features range from built-in weather resistance and fully waterproof covers to removable camera compartments, adjustable divider systems, armored protection, and multiple access points—so you never miss a shot while struggling to get your camera out of the bag. For even greater personalization, Lowepro also sells separate internal organizers and modular cases for even greater personalization. A limited warranty covers defects in materials or quality for as long as you own your bag.

Warranty: Limited warranty against defects to original owner | Return Policy: 30 days, unused and in original packaging

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