19 Best Designer Backpacks That’ll Hold All Your Essentials and Keep You Looking Effortlessly Fab
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Sure, there's a time and place for totes (especially designer ones). But when you've got lots of miscellaneous items of different shapes and sizes—such as a laptop, a water bottle, snacks, headphones, chargers galore, and maybe even a change of clothes or an extra pair of shoes—carrying a backpack with clever storage solutions, zipper pockets, and small pouches is your best bet. And I know you're probably thinking this means sacrificing style for function, but you'll change your mind when you see my list of the 19 best designer backpacks, below!
Popular brands like Beis, Monos, Ganni, and Cuyana offer gorgeous backpacks in a wide variety of neutral colorways, neons, and logo prints. They come complete with all the bells and whistles, including laptop sleeves, waterproof material, hidden compartments, zipper pockets, and so much more. Plus many of them are less than $200! (But if you happen to be in the mood to drop some serious $$$, I also included several high-end designer styles from labels like Prada and Chloé.) So, I'm 99 percent sure you'll find a backpack that matches your aesthetic and price point!
Our top picks for the best designer backpacks for women of 2024:
I won't give 'em all away but some of my personal faves are the ones from Dagne Dover, Brandon Blackwood, and Gucci! Keep reading and you'll see why. Also! Since we're talking designer, allow me to put you on the best designer sneakers and coats (it'll be cold outside before we know it). Aaand if you're still in the mood for designer bags, then how about these luxury shoulder-bags and crossbodies?
If you're obsessed with the "Everywhere" backpack like everyone else is, then you're gonna fall in love with this new, elevated style from Lululemon! The best part? You can take it from work to your workout. (BTW, there's a Double Zip version, too. It'll be hard to pick between these two, though—sorryyy.)
- Colorways: Grey Eucalyptus, Black
- Dimensions: 11.8 inches high x 6.1 inches wide x 18.1 inches deep
Rave Reviews: "Great travel and work/school backpack! I love the abundance of pockets, especially the sunglasses case. Some mentioned it is heavy but I think it is light and comfortable. There's plenty of laptop padding, as well."
It's likely you've seen one of these neoprene masterpieces in the form of a backpack or duffel somewhere on your commute. They are hard-to-miss and so easy to love. This padded option feels amazing against your body and can pack all of the essentials. Plus, there are so many pretty colorways on the Dagne Dover site!
- Colorways: Dune, Onyx, Heather Grey, and more.
- Dimensions: 15 inches high x 11 1/2 inches wide x 5 inches deep
Rave Review: "In love with this backpack! So much so, that I have already placed another order for the red one (Siren) to replace the red Madden Girl backpack that I own. As a woman who uses her backpack as her purse and have tried ALL different brands, THIS backpack meets all my needs! It has all these hidden compartments inside the bag where I can place several items in each along with two back/side zippers for quick access to items I grab most frequently. I'm still getting used to the material as the color I ordered (Dune) easily picked up dirt or wet spots easily, but found that I could simply wipe it off with a wet towel and it was back to its original new self. I've received plenty of compliments and several have already placed their own orders."
It's sleek, unique, and has hella storage—what more could you want? This stylish pick by woman-owned brand Lux and Nyx has a genius design; the trademark "V" in the front of the matte nylon exterior is actually a v (see what I did there?) discreet pocket. There's also a luggage strap so you can roll it around attached to your suitcase, cushioned top handles, loops for attaching accessories (personalizing is always fun), and padded straps—ya know, the works!
- Colorways: Navy, Black, Champagne, and more.
- Dimensions: 16.75 inches high X 11.2 inches long X 6 inches wide
Rave Review: "The Lux and Nyx Daily Pack is an absolute game-changer. Its sleek design, coupled with its functionality, makes it a must-have for everyday use. The ample storage compartments perfectly cater to my needs, keeping all essentials organized and easily accessible. The durability and quality of materials used reflect the brand's commitment to excellence. It's become an indispensable part of my daily routine, adding both convenience and style to my life. Highly recommended!"
How pretty is this muted color? The matte-finish and minimal design is also a huge plus. This pick by Rains is like a gigantic folder! You'll reach for this fold-over bag with a magnetic fastening if you're the simplistic type and you don't need tons of pockets. Plus, it's waterproof!
- Colorways: Pastel green
- Dimensions: 17.71 inch high x 11.81 wide x 2.36 inches deep
C'mon, did you really think I'd leave Longchamp off this list?! The French fashion brand has launched so many iconic tote bags and backpacks over the years, all of which are made from the finest quality materials. This style features durable and functional nylon, textured leather trim, and water-resistant lining.
- Colorways: Steel, Black, Green, and more.
- Dimensions: 10 inches wide x 11 inches long x 4 inches deep
Rave Review: "This is the perfect size for travel. It folds up to envelope size in the suitcase, holds as much as a purse does, and is small enough so you do not have to check it in the museums. It's lightweight and distributes weight evenly so one shoulder isn't carrying the weight, pick-pocket proof, and you can toss it into the washing machine. Best of all, it is highly water resistant and will keep your things dry in a downpour."
Strap this one around ya and watch the compliments come rolling in. I'm not kidding! Brandon Blackwood is a mastermind when it comes to bags so ofc, this translates into his backpack designs. This waxed denim look is perf for those casual days where you need a lil oomph to your 'fit. The size is perf for a day out or running errands. And oh, there's also a super luxe black version if you haven't seen it yet.
- Colorways: Waxed Denim, Black Leather
- Dimensions: 5.5 inches long x 8.5 inches wide x 8.7 inches deep
Rave Review: "It’s super cute; I would love to see this in white."
The plush shape and star keychain are to die for, plus this backpack has three exterior zip pockets, one interior slip pocket, and a magnetic, drawstring closure. Chic and convenient! There's also this gorge orange one if you want it!
- Colorways: Gray
- Dimensions: 11 inches wide x 6.29 inches deep x 15.35 inches high
Rave Review: "Roomy, comfortable, and hassle-free to open."
Okay, how iconic is this?! I know this Eastpak x Telfar bag looks like a tote but when you flip it to the other side, you'll find straps to convert it into a backpack! Talk about versatility. With enough room to fit your laptop, school or office supplies, beauty products, and gym clothes, this playful option is perfect for pretty much everything.
- Colorways: Black
- Dimensions: 14.17 inches wide x 5.9 inches deep x 10.62 inches long
Ideal for flights and weekend trips, this leopard-printed pick has padded shoulder straps, so you'll never be uncomfortable during those long travel days! Other features include a clasp-fastening front flap and tons of nifty pockets, plus it's made from recycled materials!
- Colorways: Leopard print, Gray, Black
- Dimensions: 15.7 inches high x 11.4 inches wide x 5.9 inches deep
Calling all Coach lovers, you absolutely need this lil diaper backpack for all the things! Ofc, there's the signature coated canvas but there's also a removable zip pouch, a changing pad, two stroller attachment straps, and tons of pockets. Just look at ya—makin' motherhood look so chic. Oh, but if you're like me and you don't have a lil one, this backpack is still a top-tier option!
- Colorways: Brass/Tan/Rust
- Dimensions: 13.5 inches long x 15.25 inches high x 5.5 inches wide
Rave Review: "I just love, love, love this backpack. I am a backpack gal and I just love the way this bag is designed. It has plenty of pockets and the size is just perfect. I have made the stroller handles into 1 strap where I can carry the backpack like a purse. Thank you Coach for finally making a backpack that is just right for me. I just wish they made it in a cream or beige color to switch out out in the seasons of the year."
Crafted from high-quality Italian leather, this spacious option has thoughtful design features like adjustable side straps, an exterior magnetic closure, two large patch pockets, a built-in laptop sleeve, and a versatile top handle.
- Colorways: Black, Cappucino, Stone, and more.
- Size: 13.3 inches high x 9.6 inches wide x 7.2 inches deep
Rave Review: "Excellent quality, practical, well-designed!
I never write these reviews…but this bag deserves one! It has the right pockets and spaces, is comfortable to carry on one shoulder, and doesn’t slip off. Leather is soft but sturdy."
A great basic for anyone and every one, this Quince nylon backpack is simple yet functional. Highlights include the water-repellent and ultra-lightweight material, the padded mesh laptop sleeve, and the front pouch with two zipper compartments.
- Colorways: Ash Grey, Navy, Dark Olive, and more.
- Dimensions: 15.8 inches high x 11.8 inches wide x 4.8 inches deep
Rave Review: "Great-looking, simple, clean lines, very functional, and just what I have been looking for! After looking at every brand out there, I know this is a true bargain," one reviewer writes.
Monos is known for launching stylish luggage with innovative storage solutions, so it's no surprise that their backpack is top-notch. The sleek design makes it so easy to stay organized, thanks to the 15-inch laptop compartment, hidden back pockets, a large pocket made of waterproof fabric (ideal for sweaty gym clothes or a rain jacket), and a trolley sleeve. Oh, and the detachable outside compartment can double up as a toiletry bag.
- Colorways: Banana Pudding, Juniper Green, Oxford Blue, and more.
- Dimensions: 11.5 inches wide × 16.5 inches long × 6 inches deep
Rave Review: "First and foremost, this backpack is beautiful. Second, it's incredibly functional. I like how it opens like a clamshell (no more digging for things at the bottom of your bag) and all of the compartments make organizing really efficient. I use the front removable case for my cords and other electronics and it has a great keychain in there as well. I also like the separate laptop compartment. I like not having to open my entire bag to grab it, especially in cafes, and it will be super useful for going through airport security as well. Time will tell how the finish of the vegan leather holds up with more use."
Every fashion person knows that if you're wearing Off-White, your outfit is automatically cool. This essentially means that you need to add this nylon taffeta backpack to your arsenal, stat. This one features a drawstring design, padded mesh face, patch pockets, silver hardware, the iconic logo, and so much more.
- Colorways: Black
- Dimensions: 20 inches high x 11 inches wide x 5.5 depth
If you're gonna invest in a luxury designer brand for your backpack, let it be this one. Inspired by a coastal, Italian summer, you'll elevate any neutral look with this ~stunning~ pop of color. (How unexpected is that fluorescent fuchsia?!) Just add gold jewelry to match the hardware details and your set!
- Colorways: Beige and ebony, Beige and blue, GG Supreme
- Dimensions: 8.5 inches wide x 11.5 inches high x 6 inches deep
This casual cutie can hold all the basics in its main compartment—which features a drawstring closure and a button snap on the top flap—so it's perfect for everyday use.
- Colorways: Yellow, Natural, Tomato, and more.
Rave Review: "Solid bag. Simple, durable, and unique design."
If you've ever tried a Beis suitcase, then you know that this brand (founded by actress Shay Mitchell) is totally worth the hype. The products are stylish, spacious, durable, and well-made—and this backpack is no different. It features exterior zip and slit pockets, an interior zip-around laptop sleeve, interior zip compartments, elastic straps, and so much more.
- Colorways: Beige
- Dimensions: 19 inches deep x 13 inches wide x 5.5 inches deep
Rave Review: "Used this for my trip to Maui. Was great for travel. Lots of compartments for organization. It's a beautiful color but is easily stained, especially putting under airplanes seats. Still love it, though!"
This backpack from Pangaia has one large front pocket, a hidden back pocket to conceal your valuables, and an internal laptop pocket. Plus, it's made from specially formulated nylon that has the ability to become biodegradable.
- Colorways: Black
This pricey Prada will have your back (pun intended) for the long haul. It's got that logo plaque we all know and love, as well as a versatile top handle, secure buckle fastenings, drawstring fastenings, and adjustable shoulder straps. The best part? It's made from 50 percent recycled or upcycled materials.
- Colorways: Black, desert beige
- Dimensions: 10.6 inches high x 9.8 inches wide x 5.5 inches deep
Wondering how to choose a designer backpack?
When buying a designer backpack (from this list, duh), you should consider a few things: your personal life, aesthetic, and the price point you're going for.
Lifestyle
First things first—how do you get by day-to-day? If you get around with barely anything on hand, then go for a mini or small style. If you carry the world with you, then definitely go for a bigger silhouette, especially one that allows for more stretch like pebbled leather. Going to work? Consider a sleek leather option that has enough room for your laptop. Often traveling or heading to the gym? Then, maybe go for something neoprene or nylon.
Personal aesthetic
For classic peeps, I recommend you looking into a backpack that's tried-and-true, like the Longchamp selection above. Do you lean more into minimalistic designs? Then, it's likely you don't want to be all logo'd out. A backpack with a clean face is what you need. But if you are a statement-maker and the goal is to stop people in their tracks, then go for something bold, like a Gucci bag that's heavy on the logos.
Price Point
Sure, a designer backpack can be a great investment but what's your budget looking like? And how much use will you get out of it? The good news is that most designer bags are made of high-quality material and can last for a long time if well-cared for.
Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle about 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is Miss Supranational Haiti 2024, a Syracuse Masters graduate, and the author of three books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and TikTok: @iamtarahlynn.
Hanna Flanagan is an associate shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, sharing her recommendations for everything from denim and eye creams to coffee mugs and silk sheets. Before joining Cosmopolitan, she wrote fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content at People (so, yes, she’s basically a professional product tester at this point). Follow her on Instagram for photos of Timothée Chalamet and #OOTD mirror pics.
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