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Oct 31, 2024

The 13 Best Sustainable Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Pack your belongings in a sustainable, durable backpack for your next adventure. In

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Pack your belongings in a sustainable, durable backpack for your next adventure.

In This Article

Sustainable and durable backpacks are essential for eco-conscious adventurers and daily commuters alike. To find the best sustainable backpacks for various experiences, we tested a wide range of packs in real-world conditions, evaluating their design, comfort, durability, and overall value. Our testing focused on choosing backpacks that provide maximum storage for your essentials and are made with sustainable methods and eco-friendly materials.

Determining whether a bag or product is made sustainably comes down to the details: including the materials used, production methods, and product recyclability. It’s important to note that sustainable practices are vast, complex, and constantly evolving, with new innovations always emerging to improve eco-friendly methods and waste reduction techniques. Brands using eco-friendly fabrics such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, upcycled leather, and innovative plant-based materials are making significant strides in reducing environmental impact. Production methods that eliminate harmful, long-lasting chemicals and utilize sustainable dyeing techniques, like waterless or natural dyes, significantly reduce environmental impact by cutting down on chemical waste and water usage. Many brands have also received certifications such as GOTS, B Corp, Oeko-tex, bluesign, and Fair Trade to ensure they prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. Whether packing for a weekend getaway or navigating your daily routine, these sustainable backpacks are our favorites based on performance and features.

Cotopaxi’s Allpa backpacks are made with 100 percent recycled fabrics, reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainability through eco-friendly materials and ethical production practices.

This may not be the ideal style if you’re seeking a backpack with more structure.

After testing the Cotopaxi Allpa backpack for two months, we noticed how durable it is, with its rubbery exterior material, which resists damage and stays clean, even after rough handling. The unstructured design still provides enough shape for efficient packing, and the multiple zipper compartments allow easy organization. There's also plenty of space to store different necessities, including a convenient laptop pocket, making it ideal for daily use and travel alike.

This backpack is made of durable TPU-coated polyester and ballistic nylon and features a suitcase-style opening, padded laptop sleeve, multiple zippered compartments, and sturdy zippers. It also includes carabiner lash loops, tuck-away straps, four grab handles, a rain cover, and a removable waist belt — making it an incredible option for camping.

The Details: TPU-coated 1000D polyester and 840D ballistic nylon paneling | 3.5 pounds | 35-liter capacity

This backpack tote is made with Fjällräven’s G-1000 fabric for high durability, combining eco-friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester, and produced without PFAS chemicals, ensuring longevity and environmental responsibility.

We wish this backpack had adjustable straps to tighten or loosen.

During our tests, we found the Kånken Totepack to be spacious, versatile, and perfect for daily use and vacations. We liked the functionality of easily switching between a tote and backpack, combined with the padded laptop compartment and built-in seat pad, which made it highly practical. The water bottle pockets were handy, though they are a bit snug for larger bottles. While the backpack straps aren’t adjustable and lack padding, the overall design is comfortable and distributes weight well for everyday use.

The Details: Polyester and organic cotton | 0.88 pounds | 14-liter capacity

Timbuk2’s backpacks are locally made from recycled pre- and post-consumer materials; reducing water use, chemical waste, and emissions, while adhering to a zero-landfill policy.

This backpack has a lot of padding, so it may not be the best fit if you prefer a slimmer feel.

After testing, we found this backpack's support and padding to be standout features. The main compartment fits daily essentials, but doesn’t leave much extra space. Its sleek design includes multiple pockets, such as a dedicated laptop compartment, slip pocket, and a trolley sleeve, making it ideal for commuting and keeping you organized throughout your travels.

The Details: Recycled nylon | 2.4 pounds | 20-liter capacity

The comfortable, barely-there fit makes this backpack ideal for long wear, and Deuter’s “Together for 360-degree Responsibility” ensures ethical production, durable materials, and eco-conscious practices.

The lack of structure at the bottom can cause the bag to sag when fully loaded.

We tested the Lightweight Speed Lite backpack by packing a 32-ounce water bottle, protein bars, sunscreens, a fanny pack, and a sweatshirt, with plenty of room to spare. The narrow, adjustable straps and secure front straps made it flexible and comfortable for extended wear. While the sagging bottom could be an issue when heavily packed, the durable, water-repellent design and ample storage make it an excellent option for commuting and hiking. Overall, it’s a versatile and reliable backpack that feels great for everyday use, and the price is reasonable for the quality and features.

The Details: Recycled polyester | 0.95 pounds | 21-liter capacity

This compact backpack is made with 100 percent recycled nylon for durability, is Fair Wear certified for ethical labor, and uses eco-friendly fabrics backed by their MAP Guarantee Repairs Program for long-lasting and reliable use.

The large interior pocket lacks a smaller, easy-access pocket for items like your wallet or keys.

We tested this mini backpack by packing essentials for a full day out. We packed the backpack with a tablet, snacks, and small personal items and still had plenty of room to add more. The adjustable shoulder straps, compression straps, and buckle closures make it convenient to customize the fit, while the high quality and sturdy zippers and durable, sustainable materials ensure longevity. This mini bag is compact enough for daily errands and spacious enough for city exploration or light travel. Though we wish it had an additional small interior pocket, the bag’s versatility, comfort, and strong buckles make it well worth the price.

The Details: Recycled nylon from pre-consumer materials | 2.4 pounds | 10-liter capacity

This sleek backpack is constructed with vegan alternatives and recyclable materials, reflecting Monos' commitment to sustainability. As a climate-neutral certified brand, Monos reduces carbon emissions and supports reforestation efforts through Veritree in Kenya.

It lacks an exterior water bottle holder, which could be inconvenient for some commuters.

We tested the Metro Backpack by packing a 15-inch laptop, chargers, toiletries, and other essentials, with everything fitting snugly between the main compartment and the detachable front pouch. The design is ideal for commuting and air travel, with smooth zippers and well-placed pockets for easy organization. The vegan leather feels durable and can ward off stains or spills easily, though it is slightly stiff. The padded handles add comfort when carrying, and the trolley sleeve is a great travel feature.

The Details: Vegan leather | 3 pounds | 18-liter capacity

This waterproof bag is crafted from bluesign and Oeko-tex certified materials, prioritizing durability, repairability, and reduced chemical use to extend its lifespan and minimize environmental impact.

We wish there were more interior and external pockets for added organization.

This bag is ideal for day hikes or short trips when you only need a few essentials, as its 15-liter capacity is not well-suited for heavy packing. The main compartment has a wide opening for easy access, and the roll-top closure with quick-release buckles adds extra waterproof protection. While there’s no laptop sleeve, the tiny internal zippered pocket is perfect for a phone or small wallet. During our testing, we loved the adjustable straps and padding, which provide great comfort and back support.

The Details: Ripstop nylon carbonate and recycled polyester | 0.81 pounds | 15-liter capacity

L.L.Bean is dedicated to environmental responsibility through durable products like the Stowaway Pack, made with recycled polyester while using bluesign certified materials to ensure sustainability.

The fabric is not waterproof, which is something to consider when you are doing outdoor activities.

We tested the L.L. Bean Stowaway Day Pack by packing a light raincoat, hat, gloves, and yak tracks and noticed plenty of room left for additional items like a puffer coat. The outer pocket conveniently held smaller essentials, while the 32-ounce water bottle fit comfortably in the side pocket with room for an even larger one. The adjustable chest and hip straps provided excellent support and stability, making the pack comfortable carrying about five to eight pounds of gear.

The Details: Recycled polyester | 14 ounces

This Gregory duffel is made from recycled polyester ripstop fabric, reflecting the brand's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint through eco-friendly materials, Lifecycle Analysis, and eliminating PFAS from its production process.

The backpack is heavy and lacks internal organization pockets, which we found to be inconvenient.

The Alpaca Duffel is an ideal option for carrying large amounts of gear, easily fitting everything from a weekender packing list with more room for essentials. The clamshell design and oversized durable zippers made packing easy, and the water-resistant fabric was dependable in harsher weather conditions. While the removable backpack straps add a versatile option, we realize that the arm handles' lack of padding and overall weight make it more suitable for heavy-duty use versus everyday travel.

The Details: Recycled polyester ripstop fabric | 3.4 pounds | 60-liter capacity

This bag is made entirely from recycled PET/polyester, making it 100 percent recyclable at the end of its life, ensuring nothing ends up in a landfill.

The tapered top opening can make packing the main compartment slightly tricky, and the canvas material may attract dust or dirt easily.

We tested this 1-pocket backpack by packing it to total capacity and found it could fit the same amount of clothing and items as a carry-on, although it was a tight fit. The canvas material is lightweight but durable, and after several drops, the bag showed no signs of damage due to its thick padding. The straps are plush and easy to adjust, providing comfort during extended wear.

The Details: Recycled polyester | 3.3 pounds | 17.6-liter capacity

Peak Design bags are all sourced from Fair Trade Certified factories, crafted from 100 percent recycled materials, and coated with PFAS-free finishes, reflecting their strong focus on sustainability and responsible production practices.

The price is on the higher end, but it could be a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers.

We tested this expandable travel backpack and were impressed by its capacity, flexibility, and durable weatherproof materials. The backpack expanded from 35L to 45L, which made it highly adaptable for different types of trips, and the well-placed sturdy zippers made it easy to access the main compartment from any angle conveniently. The padded straps and hip belt provide comfort and stability, and the sleek design includes practical features such as a dedicated laptop sleeve, expandable water bottle pockets, and a stowable hip belt with a convenient pocket for quick-access items like keys or chapstick.

The Details: Recycled 400D nylon canvas shell | 4.5 pounds | 45-liter capacity

Durability is a key pillar of Topo Designs' sustainable practices, with this backpack made from high-abrasion-resistant recycled nylon to ensure long-lasting use and reduce the need for replacements.

For shorter trips, the bag’s rigid material can make packing challenging, and it might feel bulky when fully packed.

When testing this bag, we found it to be durable, well-organized, and versatile with multiple compartments and carrying options. The bag is compact yet spacious enough for a weekend trip, but it's important to note that the bag’s stiffer material requires strategic packing. With water bottle pockets, a laptop sleeve, and a pass-through for suitcase handles, it’s a great choice for travelers who need extra flexibility and organization.

The Details: Recycled nylon | 2.6 pounds | 30-liter capacity

This bag is made with PFAS-free DWR, a durable water repellent that avoids harmful, persistent chemicals (PFAS), ensuring water resistance while reducing its environmental footprint.

The hydration valve design could be more intuitive, so it would be easier to use during hikes.

We tested this backpack by packing a water bladder, protein bars, electrolyte mix, sunscreen, trash bag, keys, and two full water bottles, and still had room left for more items. We were impressed by the lightweight design and how it distributed weight efficiently, making it feel comfortable even with the heavy load of items. The backpack's secure fit allowed the full range of motion, even with minimal padding, making this an ideal choice for day hikes or longer outdoor activities.

The Details: Recycled nylon | 0.09 pounds | 20-liter capacity

The T+L team has tested more than 30 backpacks across various outdoor activities and travel scenarios as well as in our New York City lab. We evaluated each backpack during testing based on its capacity, comfort, design, durability, and overall value. We packed each backpack with gear and essentials to assess how well it held up under various loads and checked features like compartments, accessibility, and ease of organization.

We then wore the packed backpacks during hiking trips, airport transits, and everyday commuting to see how they performed and held up in different environments and situations. From rugged trails to long-haul flights, we ensured each backpack was evaluated and tested in real-world conditions.

Greenwashing is when brands and companies inaccurately claim that their business practices and products are environmentally focused and friendly. They do this because they want to appear more eco-conscious, but being sustainably minded is not a marketing trend; it is a genuine commitment that shouldn’t be misrepresented to appeal to customers. When shopping for any sustainable item, such as a backpack, pay close attention to the materials used and what the brand represents. Being mindful and aware helps ensure you're supporting companies genuinely making a positive environmental impact.

Many ethical and eco-driven brands put sustainability at the forefront of their mission and practices, prioritizing it for both the planet and everyday consumers. When a brand states they are meticulous with the materials they use, they are also considering how their products will stand the test of time. One key aspect of a brand being sustainable is ensuring quality, so you don’t need to keep purchasing new items. When visiting a brand’s website, a clear sign of their focus on sustainability is often found in the "About" section or on their main home page, where they should provide a detailed explanation of their design and manufacturing processes, the materials they source, their authenticity, and their commitment to minimizing waste and caring for the planet.

A sustainable item such as a backpack is something that you don’t have to replace. Sustainable items consist of a variety of processes and materials. When shopping for any product, you want to ensure that the materials are durable and sourced by responsibly sourced materials that can be recycled, recycled, or renewable to help reduce the use of finite resources.

When choosing the right backpack for traveling, consider what features are most important to you. If you’ve owned backpacks before and were unsatisfied with the structure, composition, lack of pockets, or need more zippers, those are key factors to consider for your next purchase. Sustainable backpacks are sturdy, made with recyclable materials, and built to last, so consider investing in one that’s durable and long-lasting. Also, consider choosing a backpack with a versatile and classic style that complements everything and suits a variety of events and travels, ensuring you won’t feel the need to switch to a different one later on.

A convenient way to dispose of an old backpack, if it's still in good condition, is to donate it to a local charity that accepts clothing or drop it off at a thrift shop. Earth911 can provide the closest textile recycling program near you if you want to recycle locally. You can also resell gently used items you no longer want. Many brands offer “take-back programs” where you can return gently worn items to their store for repurposing or recycling. If the backpack is beyond repair, consider checking with local recycling centers to see if they accept textiles and make sure that they’re disposing of the garments ethically and responsibly.

Writer Donna Kim combed through in-house testing insights and feedback. She referenced product descriptions, the brand’s mission, and sustainability practices to provide a comprehensive roundup of the best sustainable backpacks available. She is knowledgeable and passionate about sustainability and has extensive experience writing and testing products, bags, and travel items and has tried many of the brands listed above.

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