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Backpacks aren’t just for globetrotters headed for mountain trails. From minimal and modern to sleek and designer-inspired, there are countless cute backpacks for travel that fit seamlessly into any capsule wardrobe.
Cute Backpacks for Travel
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Whether you’re strolling through Paris, navigating Tokyo’s subways, or catching a budget flight across Europe, these stylish women’s backpacks keep things hands-free and hassle-free—making every step of your journey easier.
Womens Best Backpack for Travel
Shop: Lululemon
Lululemon City Essentials Small Backpack
Lightweight, Streamlined, and Surprisingly Spacious
This Lululemon travel backpack is sleek, structured, and just the right size for city days and plane rides alike.
With water-repellent fabric, a soft-yet-durable build, and just enough compartments to keep your essentials sorted, it’s become a go-to for travelers who want lightweight backpacks for travel without sacrificing style.
The slim profile works great as a personal item under airplane seats, while the padded straps and grab handle add comfort and convenience. Ideal for travelers who prefer compact gear that doesn’t scream “tourist,” it balances modern functionality with everyday chic.
Please note: Whether you choose to use anti-theft or regular backpack, always use additional anti-theft products like a bra pouch to hide the majority of your cash.
Shop: Cuyana
Cuyana Backpack Purse
Elegant, Elevated, and Ideal for Minimalist Travelers
For those who want a cute backpack purse that’s more timeless than trendy, the Cuyana Leather Backpack is a standout.
Crafted from buttery Italian leather and designed with minimal lines, it’s perfect for elevated travel days—from business trips to stylish city breaks.
The adjustable straps offer versatility, and the magnetic flap closure keeps things secure while adding polish. This is the ultimate stylish women’s backpack for travelers who favor refined simplicity.
The Sak Los Feliz Backpack
Boho Texture Meets Practical Design
Hand-crocheted with recycled yarns, The Sak’s Los Feliz Backpack blends laid-back, boho style with practical design—perfect for everyday adventures or sightseeing.
Though compact, it has just enough room for your essentials, and features an interior back zip pocket and slip pockets to keep things organized. The soft, slouchy shape and woven texture make it a standout piece that adds interest to any casual travel outfit.
Even better? It also comes in a sleek leather version if you want a more polished take on this breezy style. Whether you’re strolling local markets or hopping from cafe to museum, this is one of those cute travel backpacks that’s as functional as it is fashionable.
Shop: Longchamp
Longchamp Le Pliage Original M Backpack
Iconic, Foldable, and Perfect for Light Packing
A longtime TFG favorite, the Longchamp Le Pliage Backpack is one of the most stylish and functional backpacks for travel. The M size offers a bit more space than the original foldable backpack, making it more practical for day-to-day sightseeing or as a personal item on the plane.
Its nylon construction is water-resistant, the adjustable leather straps are surprisingly comfy, and the fact that it folds flat makes it a great addition to your travel capsule.
Travelers love it for its understated elegance and low-maintenance design—it pairs just as well with leggings and sneakers as it does with a midi dress and flats.
Shop: Herschel
Herschel City Backpack
Sleek, Structured, and Commuter-Approved
This Herschel backpack updates the classic school-style silhouette with a sleeker, more structured feel.
The flap-top design with magnetic closure keeps things secure while offering quick access. It’s smaller than traditional Herschel models, making it ideal for day trips or urban exploration.
It’s lightweight, fits the essentials (including a tablet or slim laptop), and comes in fun seasonal colors. If you’re looking for cute travel backpacks that are simple but still eye-catching, this one’s an easy win.
See these reader recommendations for the best women’s convertible backpack purse!
Shop: MZ Wallace
MZ Wallace Small Crosby Backpack
Quilted, Compact, and Incredibly Organized
The Small Crosby Backpack by MZ Wallace is a more compact take on their city-ready styles. Made of water and stain-resistant quilted nylon, it’s incredibly lightweight and versatile.
With three zip compartments and a detachable crossbody pouch, it’s perfect for days when you want to carry just the essentials and stay organized.
This lightweight women’s travel backpack also adds a subtle designer touch to your look, making it ideal for travel days when you want to stay practical but polished
Travelon Addison Anti-Theft Backpack
Chic Anti-Theft Backpack With Everyday Appeal
The Travelon Addison Backpack brings the brand’s well-known security features into a sleeker, more fashion-forward design.
With locking compartments, slash-resistant straps, and RFID-blocking card slots, this is one of the best anti-theft travel backpacks that doesn’t look overtly technical.
The minimalist silhouette and faux leather detailing make it a great option for travelers who want both safety and style. It’s compact but still roomy enough to carry your daily essentials, including a small tablet or Kindle.
Shop: Nordstrom | Rebecca Minkoff
Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack
Edgy, Fashionable, and a Longtime TFG Favorite
A TFG editor favorite and personal go-to, the Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack is as functional as it is stylish. With a slouchy yet structured silhouette, it offers plenty of room for your travel essentials without looking bulky.
The front zipper gives easy access to items, and the hidden back zip pocket is perfect for stashing a passport or small valuables.
Its leather (or faux leather) construction adds polish, while the chunky hardware gives it a cool-girl edge. Whether you’re heading to brunch in Paris or exploring a new neighborhood in NYC, this stylish women’s backpack blends right in.
Shop: Calpak
Calpak Kaya Faux Leather Laptop Backpack
Modern, Structured, and Travel-Ready
The Calpak Kaya Backpack delivers a high-end look with a surprisingly affordable price tag. Made from sleek faux leather, this structured bag is perfect for travelers who want a cute carry-on backpack that doesn’t look sporty.
It includes a padded laptop sleeve (fits up to 15″), organizational compartments, and adjustable straps that remain comfy throughout the day.
It’s ideal for city breaks, work trips, or even as your personal item on long-haul flights. For a cute backpack for travel that transitions from airport to meeting to museum, the Kaya is a reliable go-to.
Shop: Nordstrom
Fjällräven Kånken Water Resistant Backpack
Classic Scandinavian Design With Durable Performance
The Fjällräven Kånken is practically a legend in the travel world—and with good reason.
Made from Vinylon F, a dirt- and water-resistant fabric, it’s tough enough for rugged travel while still maintaining a cute, boxy charm. This updated version maintains all the original appeal but now features even more water resistance and a padded laptop sleeve.
Its iconic square shape, rainbow of color options, and top handles for alternate carrying make it endlessly versatile. For minimalists, students, or anyone needing a lightweight travel backpack with structure, this is a staple worth keeping around.
Shop: Nordstrom | Aimee Kestenberg
Aimee Kestenberg All For Love Convertible Leather Backpack
Stylish, Functional, and Ideal for Travel
The Aimee Kestenberg All For Love Backpack is a versatile and fashion-forward choice for travelers who want a polished leather backpack that does more. Made from soft, genuine leather with a sleek silhouette and chic hardware, it’s both stylish and durable for everyday use or exploring a new city.
This convertible leather backpack easily switches from a backpack to a crossbody or shoulder bag, giving you multiple ways to wear it depending on your travel day.
It features multiple zip compartments for staying organized, and its compact design works well as a personal item on flights or as your go-to travel purse backpack for sightseeing and day trips.
If you want a stylish women’s backpack for travel that blends fashion with functionality, this is a great pick!
Shop: Vera Bradley | Dillard’s
Vera Bradley Large Bancroft Backpack
The Stylish Companion for Urban Adventures
Looking for a backpack that seamlessly combines sophistication with practicality? The Vera Bradley Bancroft Large Backpack is designed for the modern traveler, commuter, or student who values both form and function.
With a sleek design and ample storage space, it’s perfect for navigating city streets, attending classes, or embarking on weekend getaways.
Crafted from water-repellent Performance Twill, it offers durability without sacrificing style. It fits up to a 15″ laptop and includes multiple zip compartments, slip pockets, and even a pen slip to keep everything organized.
Padded adjustable shoulder straps and a trolley sleeve make it ideal for comfortable wear and easy travel, whether heading to a café or hopping on a plane.
Quince Italian Leather Small Backpack
Final Thoughts on the Best Cute Backpacks for Travel
The best cute backpacks for travel should combine fashion and function, helping you stay organized, hands-free, and stylish on the go.
Whether you’re navigating airport terminals, strolling cobblestone streets, or hopping between cafés and coworking spaces, a good travel backpack becomes your everyday essential.
From lightweight carry-on backpacks to fashionable anti-theft designs, and from sleek leather styles to packable city bags, these picks offer versatility to match your travel goals and your wardrobe.
As always, TFG readers have helped highlight bags that are practical, durable, and stylish enough to blend in across the globe.
Choose the one that fits your lifestyle, your travel itinerary—and your outfit.
Rain MSN Cargo Waterproof Backpack
FAQs: Cute and Functional Backpacks for Travel
What is the best backpack for travel as a personal item?
Look for a small travel backpack that fits under the airplane seat, ideally with a laptop sleeve and multiple compartments. Options like the Lululemon City Essentials, Calpak Kaya, and MZ Wallace Small Crosby offer great organization in compact silhouettes.
Can a backpack be stylish and still secure?
Absolutely. Brands like Travelon and Pacsafe design anti-theft travel backpacks that include features like locking zippers and RFID-blocking pockets—without sacrificing aesthetics. The Travelon Addison Backpack is a reader-favorite for its sleek style and built-in security.
What’s the best leather or faux leather travel backpack?
If you want a fashionable leather travel backpack, the Cuyana Leather Backpack and the Rebecca Minkoff Julian offer elevated looks with practical layouts. For a budget-friendly faux option, try the Calpak Kaya Backpack, which blends structure and affordability.
Which backpack is best for minimalist or capsule wardrobes?
Minimalists love versatile, neutral bags that mix and match easily. The Longchamp Le Pliage and Herschel City Backpack are great choices that pair with just about anything, from travel trousers to breezy dresses.
Is the Fjällräven Kånken backpack still a good travel pick?
Yes—its durability, structured design, and water-resistant material make the Kånken a favorite for active travelers and urban explorers alike. The updated version with a laptop sleeve is especially practical for longer trips or daily use.
Do you have any womens backpack for travel to recommend? Comment and share!
For more travel purses, please read:
- Top Anti-theft Travel Purses for Women
- Ultimate Guide To the Best Travel Purse for Europe
- Best Cross Body Purses for Travel
- Best Crossbody Phone Bag for Travel to Keep Devices Secure
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I have a Fjallraven Kanken, and it holds what I need, but I hope to “grow up” one day and get a Julian backpack!
Nice article on the best backpacks for travel, I bought a Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack from the site, a few years ago, because of your review. It’s one of the most carried bags in my closet. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Everyone,
Having read through all this, and from my own experience…light is always better! Therefore I offer the following 3
items for consideration. very small and handy wallet:
Chums Surfshort wallet
One small and very attractive waistbag by Patagonia.
and last, The Patagonia LW 15L Courier bag. All of these work for men and women. And the Courier bag holds a LOT plus has a zip top and wide, comfy and adjustable strap. Currently at $41.50 at
Patagonia. Regular price is $59, and I highly recommend black!
I have dozens of bags, including Baggallini ( which has gone downhill the past few years). This bag is the best of all of them!!! Hope you guys check it out…along with my other faves. My luggage is from Tortuga and is very lightweight, the “right” size for my 5’3” ht. And will expand from 27 to 32 ( or 34L) with a simple zipper, a feature I’ve never had to use. For ultra lightweight
packing cubes and pouches…I like Eagle Creek the best. With back problems and being older, the lighter the better for me. Hope this is helpful.
Happy Travels.
Connie
PS- wanted to add the photos, but couldn’t see any way to do it. Sorry
Henri Bendel is closed…RIP super cute convertible backpack. 🙁
It is such a shame that Henri Bendel has closed Stephanie 🙁
I really like Pacsafe products, their small backpacks are ultra secure and some are quite stylish.
Hi Dianne, thank you for sharing your recommendation of Pacsafe, their backpacks are quite popular amongst our readers, particularly their anti-theft backpacks! 🙂
I read this article and I bought the sole society backpack in black. It is very stylish, and great price, I use for meetings and it fits my laptop, and to go sightseeing as well, I wanted a bag that will do both. I want this one to work for me, I tried it in the last 3 months in three countries, I am happy except for one thing, the flap in front has a magnetic clasp that it is really difficult to close, and it opens easily, it is worse when the bag is full. This bag will be much better if it had a buckle instead so that you could secure it, you could fit more items that way. That will be the only thing I wish sole society changes. Other than this the bag is awesome, I will keep trying it in two more trips in January from Peru to Japan.
I love bags from Matt & Nat. They are a Canadian vegan company who makes their bags out of recycled bottles! You’d never guess when you look at them. Their most popular design for backpack is the ‘Brave’ one, which comes in different colors depending on the season, but the black one is a permanent staple!
Hi Alex!
Love your post! I just stumbled across your blog and love it! I am in search of a travel backpack myself and can’t seem to find one, but this post has helped a lot!
I am looking for a backpack that is fashionable yet practical for my camera that I recently purchased – something I can travel with, take as a carry-on when flying, and possibly hike in! Is there a backpack out there like that or do I just need to purchase a backpack for hiking and a fashionable one for when my husband and I are out and about? Thanks so much!
A TFG team member actually just picked up the NorthFace Isabella for a daypack and she loves it! Big enough for a camera but not too large! If you’re looking for something that’s more of a suitcase size carry-on I always loved my Osprey Farpoint 40L, it’s the perfect size for carry-on! Happy travels!
I am a professional photographer and just use an insert for my gear while traveling because my camera backpacks dont really work for traveling. There are several brands of bags for photographers that are super cute as well as nice. But be willing to spend 200-500 on a bag that can hold your gear. Or just use your favorite bag amd get a mountainsmith insert for about $30. I just did that to a recent backpacking trip to puerto rico and it worked perfectly in my backpack with room to spare for everything else I needed.
Hi!
I love your blog by the way. I am heading to Europe (Germany, Austria, and Czech Republic) for a two week honeymoon next week. It will be my first time traveling overseas and your blog has been helping me the most to prepare for this exciting trip. So thank you! 🙂
I am trying to find the best fashion backpack to take over there. I am trying to decide between your number 1 Rebecca Minkoff Julian Black Backpack or your number 2 Marc Jacobs. Which one would you choose to stay comfortable and have your things to stay protected at the same time as you travel around Europe?
Thanks for all of your help again!
I love the Rebecca Minkoff! It’s a great bag and has lasted me for so long! Happy travels Alexandra!
I got one from Target that is similar to the Sole Society faux-leather bag, but I seriously lust after the Marc Jacobs or Jetsetter!!!!
I’m so happy with my Rebecca Minkoff backpack. It was a splurge but since I only have one bag/purse/shoulder bag it’s been well worth it on my long term travels
Which looks better on a plus-size very busty girl – a cross body bag or a backpack? I’m a mom, so even though I’d prefer to go bagless when sightseeing, I have to carry a bag or purse of some sort. I feel like my cross body bag emphasizes my chest to the point of making me self conscious, but backpack straps make everything pop out more too. I need to be securely hands-free, so a shoulder bag doesn’t really work. Suggestions?
Hi Dominica, great question! I agree that a cross body bag is difficult to wear without splitting your bust in half. I think the key to create an overall cleaner bust line is to make sure you have the right bra size. It wasn’t until I got to England that I found an extensive range of bra lines and had a proper fitting. Bravissimo was a complete game changer! http://www.bravissimo.com/perfectfit/ If you’ve never had one, make sure to go to a specialty bra store if you can – it will do wonders!
With that being said, a backpack would be slightly easier to wear once you have nicely paired down girls. Alternatively, a shoulder bag would draw the least amount of attention. If you choose this route I would suggest to walk with a firm grip on the shoulder strap and to avoid holding it on the side of the street. Instead, place it on the side closest to buildings. Hope this helps!