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When sightseeing or navigating an airport or train station, toting around a purse backpack combo affords a lot of flexibility since they can be worn multiple ways which makes them highly versatile and the different wearing options can help avoid shoulder pain as well! See these reader recommendations for the best women’s convertible backpack purse!
Convertible Purse Backpack Ideas
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Multi-use bags that can be converted into a backpack, tote, or crossbody make an awesome addition to your capsule wardrobe!
They not only offer different carrying options which can alleviate discomfort on the shoulders and lower back but also provide variety in outfit looks—from casual to elevated—check out these top reader picks for a functional and cute convertible travel backpack that could be gracing your adventures soon!
Reader Recommendations for Best Backpack Convertible Purse
Fjallraven Kanken Tote Backpack
Top Reader Pick: Fjallraven Kanken Backpack Tote Combo (With 13” Laptop Sleeve)
The Fjallraven Kanken was voted as the best convertible tote backpack by readers and is an all-time top seller! So versatile and functional, the webbed straps can be worn over the shoulder or use the two straps to wear as a typical backpack.
Made of sturdy fabric, this puppy is dirt and water-resistant, and easy to clean—just wipe it down! A top loader, you can fit a 13” laptop or tablet in a padded sleeve and there are side and front pockets to organize all your essentials.
One reader proclaims this as her go-to, “I’ve owned my Kanken for two years now. I love it; it’s my only bag for weekend getaways and my personal item for every type of trip I go on.” While another TFG community member shares her family’s experience with it, “My daughter had hers all over Italy, France, and England. She had no problems carrying it and it’s super cute too.”
Lululemon Packable Convertible Backpack Tote Bag
Lululemon Lightweight Convertible Tote Backpack for Travel
This sleek convertible backpack tote from Lululemon is ultra-lightweight and perfect for minimalist travelers or those wanting an easy second bag. Made from water-repellent fabric and designed with a structured base, it folds flat and packs into itself—making it a dream for carry-on-only travel.
You can wear it as a tote, a backpack, or even tuck it into a suitcase and use it once you arrive. With a wide top opening, zippered external pockets, and a surprisingly spacious interior, this multi-use travel bag works as your personal item, beach tote, or daypack on the go.
MZ Wallace Metro Quilted Nylon Convertible Backpack
MZ Wallace Metro Stylish Quilted Convertible Backpack Purse
The MZ Wallace Metro Convertible Backpack blends high fashion with functionality, and the lightweight quilted nylon construction means it’s easy on your back—and on your eyes! With smooth leather trim and signature hardware, it’s chic enough for upscale travel days but practical enough to hold a laptop, snacks, water bottle, and more.
This quilted travel purse that converts to a backpack comes with a hidden luggage sleeve, comfortable padded straps, and a removable crossbody strap so you can switch up your style on the fly. A fabulous option if you want a bag that works for the plane, the streets, and even dinner out!
Quince Italian Leather Convertible Backpack
Quince Italian Leather Convertible Backpack
For a sleek and sophisticated travel companion, the Quince Italian Leather Convertible Backpack delivers in both form and function. Made from premium Italian leather, this elegant bag easily transforms from a backpack to a shoulder or crossbody bag, making it ideal for city sightseeing or stylish work commutes.
Inside, it offers thoughtful organization with a padded laptop sleeve (fits up to 13”), multiple compartments, and a secure zip-top closure. The minimalist silhouette, gold-tone hardware, and timeless colors like cognac or black give it a polished look for everything from business meetings to museum-hopping in Europe.
TFG readers love convertible styles like this for their practicality and understated elegance—perfect for navigating travel days without sacrificing style.
Lo & Sons Rowledge Travel Tote Backpack (With 13-14” Laptop Sleeve)
While its price is higher than other bags, the Lo & Sons Rowledge tote backpack laptop option is specially designed for travel, especially for business travelers. Many readers adore their O.G. 2.0 travel weekender tote bag, but if you’re looking for a convertible option, this could fit the bill in quality and functionality.
The Rowledge is made from a durable, yet sleek-looking nylon fabric with water-resistant zippers and it has multiple pockets to make it easy to organize your essentials, including a side pocket for a water bottle.The Jaquard interior lining is simply luxurious and you can use the trolley sleeve to slide over the handles of your carryon suitcase.
It’s available in both a small and large size, with a few inches difference between the two. The large size can fit a 14” laptop comfortably, while the smaller size can fit about a 13”.
One satisfied TFG readers shares their travel experience with this backpack, “It’s structured, but still soft enough to cram things in when I’m flying, and I love the feet on the bottom, keeps it upright and it doesn’t get super dirty. The look is very clean and professional, while still feeling high-end but not overly feminine and it fits well under an airplane seat without taking up leg room.”
Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review!
Sak Los Feliz Convertible Leather Backpack Purse
The Sak Los Feliz is another popular backpack purse which combines style and versatility with its high-quality leather design. This convertible bag easily switches between a backpack and crossbody, offering comfort and convenience. With multiple pockets for essentials and adjustable straps, it’s perfect for everyday use, travel, or as a personal item on flights.
Ideal for casual outings or sightseeing, one satisfied customer says, “The convertible design is genius! It’s well-made, comfortable as a backpack, and easily converts to a crossbody when I need it. Love it!”
Cole Haan Grand Ambition Leather Convertible Luxe Backpack
Cole Haan Grand Ambition Leather Luxe Convertible Bag Backpack (With Laptop Compartment)
The backpack tote convertible purse by Cole Haan blends sophistication with practicality. A shopper raves, “It’s sleek, stylish, and versatile—perfect for work or weekend.”
Made from premium leather, this convertible design lets you switch between a backpack and crossbody with ease. It features a padded laptop compartment, multiple organizational pockets, and adjustable straps for a custom fit. Ideal for the modern woman on the go, it combines luxury, convenience, and everyday functionality in one stylish package.
Travelon Convertible Backpack Crossbody Bag and Tote
Travelon Anti-Theft Convertible Crossbody Backpack Purse (With RFID Protection)
A highly popular brand with TFG readers as one says, “Love Travelon… have four of their bags!” And we tend to agree, they make amazing bags for travel! This cute and polished convertible handbag has slash-proof mesh panels and straps, as well as RFID blocking inside pockets and compartments that lock, making this a must-get for travel in Europe!
This backpack crossbody convertible purse also has numerous ways to organize, with zippered and slip pockets and it also has a strap to slip over luggage. But the main attraction is how many ways you can wear this bag—three to be exact—as a tote, backpack, or crossbody!
Another reader echoes her love for these, “I have several Travelon bags and really like them because of how the zippers lock. Gives me peace of mind when I’m someplace new.”
We’ve rounded up the best anti theft travel bags for women, and our readers have voted for their favorite styles!
Aimee Kestenberg All for Love Convertible Vintage Backpack Purse
Aimee Kestenberg White Convertible Leather Backpack
The Aimee Kestenberg All For Love convertible white leather backpack offers both style and versatility. Made from high-quality leather, it easily converts from a backpack to a crossbody or shoulder bag. With multiple compartments, including a front zip pocket, it keeps your essentials organized and secure. The adjustable straps ensure a comfortable fit, while the chic hardware adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.
Perfect for everyday wear or travel, one customer says, “I love how versatile and well-made this bag is. It’s stylish, practical, and fits everything I need!”
PacSafe Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Convertible Backpack
Pacsafe Citysafe Anti-Theft Convertible Laptop Backpack (With 16” Laptop Sleeve)
Long-time readers and female travelers adore Pacsafe for producing stylish yet excellent anti-theft bags. The Citysafe 17L convertible laptop bag is definitely a contender in both looks and functionality with slash-proof material and padded shoulder straps which can be secured to a table leg to keep it anchored down. The interlocking zippers, laptop padded sleeve (can fit a 16” Macbook Pro), RFID blocking pockets, and expandable compartments for an umbrella or water bottle make this an anti-theft and organizational dream!
Top it off with the carrying options via the top handles, lengthen the strap into a crossbody or sling, or use it as a backpack, along with the handy luggage sleeve, as well as the sleek look and gold hardware means you’ll look good and navigate easily through security or walking the streets of Paris.
A TFG reader shares, “It was great for my SE Asia trip. I used it in backpack mode for touring and crossbody mode at night.” While another says, “I used it in Greece and Italy and it was great. In purse mode, I got into all museums except the Borghese Gallery as no purses were allowed at all in there.”
Osprey Arcane Convertible Backpack Tote (With 15” Laptop Sleeve)
If you’ve been a reader of TFG for a while, you may have noticed I’m incredibly brand loyal. Osprey is a brand that first impressed me on my 9-month round-the-world trip with the Aura 65L, and it’s been my go-to travel and outdoor gear brand ever since! I’ve also had the 55L Farpoint and used it constantly.
So, it’s amazing to see readers hopping on the bandwagon with the Osprey Arcane tote backpack convertible bag! One TFG reader says about this, “It makes a great carry-on and laptop bag sd it has a lot of structure.” This is a top loader that folds over so offers a bit more security, with front pockets and interior ones to hold your essentials. It can also hold a 15” laptop in its padded sleeve.
The top handles can be slung over the shoulder or tucked away when not in use. Marketed as an outdoor bag, it could be fine for light hikes but likely nothing hardcore. However, it’s still made with the brand’s signature durable fabric and has a DWR finish to repel water.
Sherpani Soleil Anti Theft Backpack
Sherpani Soleil Anti-Theft Nylon Convertible Backpack (With 15” Laptop Sleeve)
In recent years, the Sherpani Soleil 3 in 1 convertible backpack has become a reader favorite! One exclaims, “I used it for four weeks in Europe this summer. Loved it!” This durable and water-resistant bag has numerous compartments to hold anything from a phone to a water bottle, or a small makeup bag, and there’s a laptop sleeve as well as a luggage sleeve.
More budget-oriented than some Pacsafe products, this comes loaded with anti-theft features that include anti-slash fabric, zip locks, RFID blocking protection, and a looping lock system for chairs or table legs. The 3 in 1 function means you can wear it as a crossbody, use it as a tote, or backpack, making it super versatile!
And the way it looks? This TFG reader doesn’t hold back, “Wow! It’s beautiful, versatile, and affordable.”
Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review!
Cuyana Leather Convertible Leather Backpack (With 13”-16” Laptop Sleeve)
If you’re a purveyor of fine Italian products, the convertible backpack purse designer Cuyana has crafted is an elegant, classig design that can fit all your essentials, as well as a dedicated laptop compartment that accommodates 13”-16” size laptops.
It has nice, wide straps, easy to use magnetic closures, and you can carry as a tote or over the shoulder. Cuyana is LWG certified, which means that the leather is tanned responsibly.
Best Budget Convertible Backpacks
Baggallini 3-in-1 Convertible Backpack With RFID Phone Wristlet
Baggallini Convertible Tote Bag Backpack Crossbody – 3 In 1 (With RFID Wristlet)
Known for making durable, sleek, and timeless luggage options, Baggalini has been a long-time reader favorite. Made of water-resistant fabric, this cute and unique backpack purse can be organized easily with multiple side, exterior, and interior pockets, and you’ll have tons of wearing options, from a chic tote, practical cross-body, or a hands-free backpack.
And as a bonus, the bag comes with an adorably matching wristlet that can be a purse organizer or an evening bag for a night out.
One TFG reader shares her experience traveling with this backpack, “I just took it on a trip from the USA to Scotland. If held a change of clothes, Kindle, snacks, a 16 oz water bottle, some toiletries, and more! It fit perfectly under the seat on all my planes and was easy to get around with. It has lots of nice pockets.”
Vera Bradley Convertible Handbag Backpack
Vera Bradley Convertible Backpack Handbag
As one reader announces, “I have loved Vera Bradley for years!” The Vera Bradley convertible bags can go over one shoulder, act as a tote, or be a backpack and make an excellent option for a personal item or carry on backpack.
There are so many pockets (zip, cargo, and more!) to store your items and there’s even a shoe compartment. This bag features 2 slip and 1 zip pocket on the exterior along with 2 slip and 1 zip pocket on the inside – keeping you perfectly organized. A TFG reader says she “loves this bag and used it as a personal item many times!”
Baggallini Naples Convertible Sling Backpack
Naples Convertible Sling Backpack
The Naples convertible sling backpack offers both style and functionality with its versatile design. Made from durable materials, it easily converts from a backpack to a sling bag, allowing you to carry it however you prefer. Its spacious main compartment and front zip pocket keep your essentials organized, while the adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit for all-day wear.
Perfect for daily use or travel, one satisfied customer says, “I love how versatile and comfortable this bag is! It’s the perfect size for my essentials, and I can easily switch between backpack and sling.”
What’s your favorite women’s convertible laptop backpack? Please comment below!
For more tips and ideas on travel bags, please read:
- Top Anti-Theft Travel Bags for Women – Best Sellers!
- Choosing the Best Personal Item Bag
- Choosing the Best Travel Purse for Europe
- Cross Body Purses: The Best Travel Shoulder Bags for Women
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I don’t see the Rebecca Minkoff in this list. Would you not consider it a convertible backpack?
Great question. I had never really considered it. I suppose not in the traditional sense that like with some of these where the straps clearly can be changed to convert the purse. Does that make sense?
I ended up buying the Sak Loyola based on this post and found it on sale this weekend. I mostly wanted something purse-like and sleek to fit my laptop in between the office and home, but I think it will be really helpful for my underseat item for traveling too!
Great list! I have The Sak Ventura 2 bag in tobacco. I took it to my local leather shop and had a matching 8” grab handle added to the top rings. This allows me to slip the bag onto my wrist or carry it by this short handle. This makes the bag incredibly versatile. Because of the unique suspension system, I can also carry it as a backpack, backpack with the flap turned against my back, shoulder bag, or crossbody. The bag well-made and nicely lined. Naturally cut resistant. I sewed some attachment points into the lining for my wallet and phone tethers, keys, etc. It’s big enough for a full day out, including a jacket (in a small packing cube), bottle of water and snacks, but the flat shape keeps it from becoming bulky. I can hold it in my lap during meals and transit. I appreciate the carrying options, because I like to use a backpack for my main bag, with a medium size handbag for my personal item and day bag.
I am on a search for the right one for me!
I have an older Travelon convertible backpack that we used when sightseeing in Europe.
Just purchased a Sherpani sojourn to use as my under seat bag for an upcoming trip to Europe. Can’t wait to give it a try.
I have a different version of the Sherpani (mine is a Sojourn) and love it! I’m going to have to try and get my hands on one of the teal Soleils. I also have a different verion of the Pixie Mood (mine is the Cora), which I haven’t used as much. I’ll have to consider it more often.
Thank you for sharing your love of the Sherpani backpacks with us Cheri! 🙂
I have the exact Sakroots bag shown. It’s a good idea, but the patterned version of it is not stiff enough or structured enough. It collapses on itself all the time and the adjustable straps never stay put. The bag ends up at my knees in crossbody mode. This bag will only drive you crazy. The concept is good, but doesn’t function like it should.
Good to know, thanks!
I have the same bag. I agree 100% with your comment. Hence, my search for a new convertible backpacks begins.
I have one too and I agree with J.C and Elle. I now use the Tumi Jackie convertible bag, it’s way better than this one!
I love the Henri Bendel Convertible Backpack. It is super cute, comes in many colors, and is very versatile.
I would love to know what the bag is in the top, title picture for this article.
The image used is a stock photo, however the bag is similar to item 2 on the list 🙂