11 Small Backpacks With Just Enough Room for the Essentials
Dagne Dover Small Dakota Backpack
This neoprene backpack by Dagne Dover is soft and lightweight making it a comfortable option for long travel days. While it may be small, it's got plenty of organizational features: an airmesh tablet sleeve, two interior pockets, two zipper exterior pockets, and the brand's signature key leash.
To buy: dagnedover.com, $135
Madewell Mini Lorimer Backpack
The distressed leather of this cognac mini backpack by Madewell gives it a distinctively vintage look. It's also available in black and a deep cabernet red.
To buy: shopbop.com, $158
Stella McCartney Falabella Mini Eco Nylon Backpack
Eco-friendly luxe brand Stella McCartney is famous for its chain-link falabella styles. This mini eco nylon backpack is small, yet stylish.
To buy: neimanmarcus.com, $665
Longchamp Le Pliage Backpack
Always a crowd-favorite, Longchamp’s nylon backpack is durable and water-resistant. The best part? When you’re done using it, you can fold it up and store it in your suitcase.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $125
Away The Daypack
Behind the facade of its sleek and minimal design, Away’s daypack is the perfect companion for a traveler. Not only does it blend seamlessly into your travel outfit, the functionality hits the sweet spot, with interior organization pockets and a sling that slides over your suitcase handle.
To buy: awaytravel.com, $175
Proenza Schouler Leather Backpack
The ultimate fashion girl will love Proenza Schouler’s sleek and minimal backpack. It features a silver top handle and unzips to a suede panel that expands for a spacious interior. You can wear it across your back or over your shoulder.
To buy: net-a-porter.com, $1,495
Tumi Voyageur Witney Backpack
For the classic traveler who’s looking for a sized-down version of their favorite backpack, Tumi’s Voyageur Witney Backpack has everything you’ll need.
To buy: shopbop.com, $295
Mansur Gavriel Mini Backpack
No one does a sleek leather bag quite like cult-favorite brand Mansur Gavriel. If you want a backpack silhouette without sacrificing style, Mansur Gavriel’s mini leather flap-top bag is your ticket.
To buy: farfetch.com, $675
Steve Madden Mini Faux Fur Convertible Backpack
Need a backpack to get you in the ski trip spirit? Steve Madden’s mini backpack can fit all of your necessities and is the perfect companion for a week on the slopes.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $41 (originally $68)
Gucci GG Marmont 2.0 Matelassé Leather Mini Backpack
Gucci’s take on the mini backpack is a fashionably comfortable option for a long day exploring a new city.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $1,980
Smythson Panama Small Backpack
Elegant, simple, and no-frills, this Smythson bag is the most classic option if you want functionality with a touch of luxe.
To buy: smythson.com, $1,195
If there is one thing every traveler needs, it’s a backpack. Whether you’re toting it through the airport or using it as your day bag in a new city, it’s the ideal companion for a hands-free day. The perfect backpack is comfortable, lightweight, and practical, yet doesn’t compromise style.