The Top 10 Backpack Styles For Everyday Life

Navigating the crossroads between fashion and functionality can be tough – especially when you can’t sacrifice the essentials you need, whether at school, in the office or on the go. If you’ve spent hours searching for that perfect back-to-work, back-to-school or back-to-reality bag and still haven’t had any luck, it might be time to consider the ever-practical backpack. No longer limited to ruggedly hardy or tediously practical designs, today’s backpacks combine comfort, utility and usability without sacrificing on style. Take a look at our picks for the top everyday backpack designs to sling over your shoulder, whatever your daily agenda.

For City Life: The Urban Rolltop Backpack

Elevate your urban endeavours with a sleek rolltop backpack, a blend of style and pragmatism that marries adaptability with timeless design. Not just made for looks, the rolling top allows the backpack to expand and accommodate whatever you may be carrying that day, making it an ideal companion for both work and play. Many also come with an intricate pocket layout that facilitates organisation while maintaining a sleek, contemporary edge. Opt for a budget-friendly version, a stylish model to fit your work needs, or this practical backpack that comes complete with a matching camera bag. What more could you need?

For Mobile Work: The Laptop Backpack

An indispensable accessory for both students and working professionals, a laptop backpack guards your digital companions within specially padded compartments. They also usually come with an array of pockets for storing your daily must-haves, from pens to snacks, chargers and more. If you’re unsure which type of laptop backpack to invest in, we have a few tips: this sleek, classic model will blend in seamlessly at even the stuffiest office; this lightweight version is ideal for long days at uni; and this cute bag (though almost ludicrously capacious) is perfect for people who need to carry, well, everything.

For Day & Night: The Convertible Backpack

Sometimes you just don’t want to wear a backpack to happy hour – and we don’t blame you – but what are you to do when you can’t make a pit stop at home? You take a convertible backpack, of course. A multi-purpose companion, this ingenious bag can easily transform from a carry-all backpack into a tote bag or purse in only a matter of seconds. For those who prefer flexibility and hate the hassle of switching bags, a convertible backpack is the ideal go-to carry-all for busy weekdays. Try a sleek leather model for extra flair, or a versatile eco-friendly option, or invest in an uber-stylish bag to complete your office outfit. 

For The Essentials: The Mini Backpack

We don’t know why tiny versions of regular items are ten times more charming, but there’s no denying it – and backpacks are no exception. A playful and chic option that’s still comfortable and practical, mini backpacks offer room for essential items without being obtrusive, and tend to be more manageable for anyone with a smaller frame. If you’re a trendy type, you’ll likely want to reach for a water-resistant Mini Kånken, but a more relaxed yet still stylish option could be found in a Kipling. If you’re fashion-inclined, try a durable leather option like this one. 

For Freedom Of Movement: The Crossbody Sling Backpack

Not to be confused with a bum bag, though we do see the resemblance, this backpack style offers the wearer complete hands-free comfort, convenience and a touch of style. Draping diagonally across the body and offering the option to be worn with the bag in front, it orchestrates seamless access to your key items while granting a liberating sensation of total mobility. We already have an eye on this simple model perfect for city walks, as well as this full grain leather design that will perfectly match our street style looks.

For Safety First: The Anti-Theft Backpack

Give yourself a bit more peace of mind on your city breaks and subway commutes with an anti-theft backpack that blends protection and style. Equipped with concealed compartments, RFID-repelling chambers, puncture-proof zippers, TSA-approved locks and straps impervious to blades, an anti-theft bag will safeguard your stuff without looking conspicuous. Try this business-minded model, or even this backpack boasting a concealed charging port.  

For Outdoor Adventures: The Hiking Backpack

If you spend less time in the concrete jungle than in the actual jungle, you may need a bag with a bit more wherewithal. Hiking backpacks generally come engineered with the bells and whistles to make a wilderness trek more comfortable, like ergonomic straps, weather-proof coverings and compartments for water bottles, maps and cameras – and they do it all while maximising storage and being as lightweight as possible. Consider this model, which comes with a built-in three-litre hydration pack, this ergonomic bag that will suit even the most sensitive of backs, or this roomy, adjustable version ideal for long-stay explorers. 

For Most Any Occasion: The Classic Daypack

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? A grown-up version of what you used to carry around in your school days, the trusty daypack remains an ideal choice both for work and leisure. Unpretentious, efficient and well-organised, with a spacious main section and a few smaller compartments for easy accessibility, you just can’t go wrong. With so many models to choose from, it can be hard to pick the right one; we like this two-toned version that will make you stand out, this brand-name classic, and this multi-pocketed backpack for extra organisation.

For Lightening The Load: The Rolling Backpack

Instead of breaking your back, why not give your back a break? If you’re in need of some heavy-duty assistance, a backpack with wheels can be a game-changer, offering all the benefits of your regular daypack – from the ability to haul heavy textbooks, to multiple pockets for ultimate organisation – without straining your muscles. A vital asset for seamless carry-on travel, but also ideal for classrooms and offices, this type of bag is slightly heavier than a standard backpack but lighter than a conventional suitcase, with the option to be worn on the back or rolled on wheels. Just be sure that, if you intend to use it for air travel, you choose one that dances in tandem with airline carry-on regulations.

For Style On The Go: The Leather Backpack

No backpack exudes class and style quite like a leather backpack. Sophisticated, timeless and practical, leather bags have long held appeal for professionals seeking to clothe the boring aspects of functionality (like notebooks, chargers, etc.) in a robe of elegance. Of course, such elegance comes at a premium, as this material weaves a story of durability that transcends passing trends. Leather backpacks, real ones, are not cheap. But are they worth the investment? Absolutely.