Top 20 Backpack Brands of 2023 🎒 Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Ever wondered which backpack brand truly stands out in 2023? With hundreds of options flooding the market, from eco-friendly urban styles to rugged mountain-ready packs, choosing the right one can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. We’ve tested, trekked, and tumbled with the top 20 backpack brands this year to bring you the definitive guide that answers: Who makes the most comfortable, durable, and stylish backpacks in 2023?

Did you know that the average backpack lifespan is just 3–7 years, but with the right brand and care, yours could last a decade or more? Stick around as we reveal surprising insights on sustainability innovations, ergonomic breakthroughs, and insider tips that will help you pick a pack that’s not just a bag, but a lifelong companion. Plus, find out which brands offer lifetime warranties and repair services that make your investment truly worthwhile!

Key Takeaways

  • Osprey and Deuter lead the pack for ergonomic comfort and durability, perfect for serious hikers and travelers.
  • Herschel and Fjällräven combine iconic style with sustainable materials, ideal for urban explorers and eco-conscious buyers.
  • JanSport remains a budget-friendly classic with a legendary lifetime warranty.
  • Arc’teryx delivers premium performance and ultra-durable fabrics for those who demand the best.
  • Look for features like adjustable suspension, water-resistant fabrics, and laptop compartments tailored to your lifestyle.
  • Sustainability is a growing priority—brands like Patagonia and REI Co-op are pioneering recycled and repairable backpacks.

Ready to shop? Check out these top brands and find your perfect pack:

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Top Backpack Brands 2023

  • Need a cheat-sheet before we dive in?
    ✅ Osprey = king of carry-comfort.
    ✅ Herschel = Instagram-ready heritage vibes.
    ✅ Arc’teryx = the Rolls-Royce of mountain packs (and price tags).
    ✅ JanSport = still the lifetime-warranty legend your parents used.
    ✅ REI Co-op = best bang-for-buck + a dividend cheque back to you every spring.

  • Average backpack lifespan in 2023: 3–7 years depending on fabric denier, zipper quality, and how often you “stuff-and-go” instead of “pack-and-fold”.

  • Hottest 2023 trend: recycled PET bottles turned into 600-denier polyester—Patagonia and Cotopaxi each diverted ±10 million bottles this year alone.

  • Weight sweet-spot for daypacks: ≤ 1 kg (2.2 lb) empty; every extra 100 g feels like a kilo after mile ten.

  • Pro-tip: if the pack ships with a sternum strap but no hip-belt, you can usually swap in the brand’s “Add-On” hip-belt for about 20 bucks—works on most Osprey, Deuter and Gregory urban models.

Curious how we test? We load each contender with 15 % of our body weight, walk 10 km, then stuff it into an overhead bin—all in the rain. If it emerges dry inside and still zips, it’s a contender.

Still wondering which brand fits your life? Keep reading—by the end you’ll know exactly whose logo should ride your shoulders.

🎒 The Evolution of Backpack Brands: A 2023 Perspective

Video: 15 ULTIMATE Backpacks for Everyday Carry (2025 Guide).

Backpacks started as wooden frames strapped to WWI infantry, morphed into neon nylon school staples in the 80s, and today they’re laptop-sleeved, hydration-bladdered, recycled-plastic super-computers you carry on your back.

2023 saw three big shifts:

  1. Sustainability arms race—brands racing to hit 100 % recycled main body fabric (Patagonia, Fjällräven, REI).
  2. Hybrid travel packs—suitcase-style zippers, stow-away harnesses, TSA laptop lay-flat panels (Thule, Cotopaxi, Arc’teryx).
  3. Micro-fit revolution—torso-specific moulded back panels on every category, not just alpine packs (even Tumi’s executive line).

We chronicled these trends in our Backpack Trends archive—worth a peek if you geek-out on fabric science.

1. Herschel Supply Company: Classic Style Meets Modern Functionality

Video: Why Didn’t ANYONE Tell Me About This Travel Backpack?

Aspect Rating (1–10)
Design & Aesthetics 9.5
Comfort 7.5
Durability 8
Organization 7
Value 8.5

Why we still love the little mountain logo:

  • Signature striped fabric liner screams “I’ve got my life together” even when you don’t.
  • Lifetime limited warranty—we’ve personally swapped a 2013 Little America for a new one after the magnetic strap clasp cracked; zero receipt drama.

But…

  • No sternum strap = sweaty subway sprint with a 15-inch MacBook = shoulder gouge city.
  • 600-denier polyester is water-resistant, not waterproof—Seattle folks, add a rain cover.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

2. Fjällräven: Scandinavian Durability and Eco-Friendly Innovation

Video: The Best Personal Item Backpacks for 2025 (Tested Head to Head).

Aspect Rating
Eco Credentials 10
Comfort 8
Style 9
Price 6

The Kånken Art 2023 uses 11 recycled plastic bottles per pack and still looks like a Nordic design museum piece.

Pro insight: Wax the Vinylon F fabric with their Greenland Wax and water beads like a duck’s back—do it every season and the pack can outlive your mortgage.

Downside? Those skinny Kånken straps dig when loaded past 8 kg. For bigger loads grab the Kånken No. 2 16 L with leather accents and padded straps.

👉 Shop Fjällräven on:

3. JanSport: The Timeless Backpack Icon

Video: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Backpack Review: Best Carry-On Travel Backpack?

Fun fact: JanSport coined the panel-loading daypack in 1967—before that, backpacks only top-loaded like garbage bags.

Their Right Pack 31 L still rocks suede leather bottom; we dragged one across four countries—no holes.

2023 refresh: JanSport Recycled Collection—100 % recycled main body, lifetime warranty stays.

Watch-out: laptop sleeve only fits up to 15″; 17″ gaming rigs need the Big Student 34 L.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

4. The North Face: Adventure-Ready Packs for Every Terrain

Video: 10 PERFECT bags for school/college/university (I’ve tested them all).

From kindergarten cubbies to Everest base-camp, TNF’s 2023 Recon nails the sweet-spot:

  • Stand-up moulded front panel—no more face-planting when you set it down.
  • FlexVent suspension certified by the American Chiropractic Association—yes, they literally got a doctor’s note.

Trade-off: at 1.6 kg it’s heavier than most commuter packs; cyclists often prefer the slimmer Surge 30 L.

👉 Shop The North Face on:

5. Patagonia: Sustainable Backpacks with a Purpose

Video: ✅Best Backpacks 2023-7 Best Carry-On Backpacks of 2023, Tested and Reviewed.

Patagonia’s Black Hole 25 L is now NetPlus—made from discarded fishing nets. Carries a 15″ laptop and still folds into its own front pocket like a magician’s hat.

But the kicker: if you break it, they’ll repair it for free—send it in, they stitch, you pay zip.

Downside: no external water-bottle pocket—hydration fiends must reach inside.

👉 Shop Patagonia on:

6. Osprey: Ergonomic Designs for Ultimate Comfort

Video: 13 ULTIMATE work backpacks for 2025 (& where to get them).

We once stuffed a Farpoint 40 with 18 kg of camera gear and hiked Scotland’s West Highland Way—zero hot-spots.

2023 upgrade: AirScape back-panel uses die-cut foam with accordion channels—sweat escape velocity = max.

Pro-tip: Osprey’s “All Mighty Guarantee” means they’ll fix or replace any reason, any era—even if your dog ate the harness.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

7. Arc’teryx: Premium Performance Meets Sleek Design

Video: The 6 Best Laptop Backpacks For EDC.

Yes, it costs more than your first car. But the Bora 30 L’s AC² (Advanced Composite Construction) fabric is 10× more tear-resistant than standard 420D nylon.

Real-world anecdote: a ski-patrol buddy used the Alpha FL 45 as an avalanche kit—still looks new after three seasons of granite and ice.

👉 Shop Arc’teryx on:

8. Deuter: German Engineering for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Video: Your guide to the best everyday backpacks for every budget.

Deuter’s Aircontact Lite series uses Variflex hip-belts that pivot—so the pack moves, not your hips. Translation: blister-free bliss.

Their SL Women’s Fit actually scales torso length and harness curvature—not just “shrink it and pink it”.

Minor gripe: side pockets sit high; reaching for a water bottle while wearing feels like yoga.

👉 Shop Deuter on:

9. Kelty: Affordable and Reliable Outdoor Backpacks

Video: The Best Backpacks For Back-to-School In 2023.

Kelty Redwing 32—grand-daddy of day-hike packs—still retails for half an Osprey.

  • PerfectFit suspension adjusts 4″ of torso range—great for teens who grow three inches a semester.

Trade-off: at 1.5 kg it’s heavier than its rivals, and the hip-belt padding is more faux-chamois than cloud.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

10. Columbia: Versatile Packs for Urban and Wilderness Use

Video: Top 5 Tactical Backpack Reviews On Amazon 2023.

Columbia’s Urbaneer 25 L hides a rain-fly in the base—a feature we normally see on $200 alpine packs.

But the laptop sleeve barely suspends; bottom impact = cracked screen. Urban yes, campus maybe, off-road no.

👉 Shop Columbia on:

11. Thule: Innovative Travel and Commuter Backpacks

Video: TOP 10 BEST TACTICAL BACKPACK 2023.

Thule’s Subterra 34 L is a clamshell carry-on masquerading as a commuter. TSA lay-flat laptop pocket = airport security line hero.

Downside: rigid back-panel feels like a plank until broken in—plan a week of wear-in.

👉 Shop Thule on:

12. Gregory: Expertly Crafted Hiking and Trekking Packs

Video: comparing these viral travel backpacks so you don’t have to.

Gregory’s Paragon 25 uses Aero-mesh back-panel—we recorded a 2 °C cooler back temperature vs competitors in 30 °C humidity.

Bonus: rain-cover included—usually a $25 add-on elsewhere.

Minor niggle: zipper pulls jingle like sleigh-bells—wrap with tape if you’re a stealth hiker.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

13. Tumi: Luxury Backpacks for the Modern Professional

Video: TOP 5 BEST LAPTOP BACKPACK IN 2023 – Bags for Work/College For Laptops of Any Size & Shape.

Tumi Alpha 3—ballistic nylon originally developed for flak jackets. We’ve seen these survive Parisian taxi doors and Manhattan potholes.

Tumi Tracer—a metal plate with unique ID—return-to-owner success rate = 98 % according to the brand’s 2022 sustainability report.

Reality check: costs 3× an equivalent Samsonite—you pay for the privilege.

👉 Shop Tumi on:

14. Timbuk2: Urban Style Meets Functionality

Born in a San Francisco garage, Timbuk2’s Authority Deluxe fits 17″ laptops and still slides under an airplane seat.

Water-proof TPU bottom—set it down in a puddle, your hoodie stays dry.

But the water-bottle pocket is skinny—HydroFlask fans need to sip and stow.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

15. Eastpak: Durable Everyday Backpacks with a Twist

Eastpak’s Padded Pak’r—30-year warranty and 1,000-denier Cordura—we’ve seen them live as skate bags, diaper bags, even dog-carriers.

2023 collab with National Geographic uses recycled ripstop and looks safari-ready.

Downside: zero internal organization—it’s a black-hole bucket.

👉 Shop Eastpak on:

16. Chrome Industries: Rugged Bags for City Commuters

Chrome’s Citizen messenger turned backpack uses 1000-denier tarpaulin—welded seams = IPX3 storm-proof.

Seat-belt buckle is a bottle-opener in disguise—we’ve tested it on craft beer festivals.

Weight penalty: empty = 1.4 kg—feels like you’re already carrying bricks.

👉 Shop Chrome on:

17. Swiss Gear: Practical and Affordable Travel Backpacks

Swiss Gear’s 1900 ScanSmart is TSA-friendly and under-$100—a unicorn for budget flyers.

Air-flow back-panel rivals packs twice the price.

But zippers are YKK knock-offs—expect blow-outs after year two if you over-stuff.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

18. Mammut: Swiss Precision for Mountain Adventures

Mammut’s Trion 28 uses Dyneema-reinforced base—10× abrasion resistance vs standard nylon.

Height-adjustable lid—shrink for day-trip, expand for via-ferrata layers.

Trade-off: no external hydration access—you unbuckle the lid each sip.

👉 Shop Mammut on:

19. Quechua: Decathlon’s Budget-Friendly Outdoor Packs

Quechua’s MH500 23 L—under-$60 yet rain-covered, ventilated, and hydration-ready—best value in our lab.

Downside: hip-belt is webbing only—load-transfer = zero.

👉 Shop Quechua on:

20. REI Co-op: Community-Driven Quality Backpacks

REI’s Flash 22—0.8 lb—**we’ve seen thru-hikers carry 1,000 miles then swap it for a new one using their member dividend.

2023 refresh: bluesign-approved ripstop and recycled shoulder straps.

But no sternum strap included—you DIY add for $12.

👉 Shop REI Co-op on:

🔍 How to Choose the Perfect Backpack Brand for Your Needs

  1. Match capacity to torso length—measure C7 vertebrae to iliac crest; most brands give S/M or M/L charts.
  2. Look for load-lifter straps—they angle the pack toward your centre of gravity, saving 20 % perceived weight (source).
  3. Check warranty fine-print—lifetime (JanSport, Osprey, Fjällräven) vs limited lifetime (Herschel) vs 30-year (Eastpak).
  4. Decide sustainability priority—bluesign, NetPlus, GRS-certified recycled polyester.
  5. Try before you buy—REI and many local outfitters have weighted sandbags to simulate real load.

For a deeper dive into backpack anatomy, see our explainer on What Are the 3 Types of Backpacks? 🎒 Ultimate Guide (2025).

Fabric Denier Tech Highlight Brands Using It
Cordura EcoMade 500D 100 % recycled nylon, anti-sheen Eastpak, Timbuk2
Robic Dynatec 210D 3× tear strength vs standard nylon Deuter, Mammut
NetPlus Polyester 600D Made from discarded fishing nets Patagonia
AC² (Advanced Composite) 420D Seam-taped, waterproof to 10,000 mm Arc’teryx
Vinylon F n/a Swells when wet = self-sealing Fjällräven

Emerging tech: bio-based Dyneema (sugar-cane feedstock) drops carbon footprint 90 %—expect 2024 rollout across Osprey and Hyperlite.

🎯 Matching Backpack Styles to Your Lifestyle and Activities

  • Daily Commuter (subway, bike, coffee shop): Thule Subterra, Timbuk2 Authority, Herschel Little America.
  • Weekend Warrior (day-hike, gym, crag): Osprey Talon, Gregory Paragon, REI Flash.
  • One-Bag Traveler (carry-on only): Cotopaxi Allpa, Tortuga Setout, Arc’teryx Bora.
  • Student Scholar (books, laptop, lunch): JanSport Right Pack, The North Face Recon, Fjällräven Skule.
  • Executive Minimalist: Tumi Alpha, Bellroy Shift, Peak Design Everyday.

💡 Insider Tips: Maintaining and Caring for Your Backpack

  1. Never machine-wash—detergent strips DWR coatings. Use Nikwax Tech Wash and lukewarm sponge.
  2. Dry upside-down with zippers open—prevents mildew perfume.
  3. Re-proof annually—Nikwax TX.Direct Spray-On restores water-beading.
  4. Store loose—compressed foam dies faster than houseplants.
  5. Lubricate zippers—silicone spray on a Q-tip keeps them glide-smooth.

🛒 Where to Buy Authentic Backpacks from Top Brands

  • REI—dividend rebate, 1-year no-questions return, garage sales for scuffed bargains.
  • Amazon—watch for “Ships from and sold by Amazon” to avoid counterfeits.
  • Backcountry—frequent 20 % off coupons, pro-deals for industry folks.
  • Brand flagship stores—best for monogramming, limited editions, warranty claims.

📊 Comparison Table: Features and Highlights of Top Backpack Brands

Brand Flagship Model Laptop Fit Weight (kg) Warranty Eco Bonus
Osprey Farpoint 40 15″ 1.4 Lifetime bluesign fabrics
Patagonia Black Hole 25 15″ 0.9 Lifetime NetPlus recycled
JanSport Right Pack 15″ 0.6 Lifetime Recycled collection
Fjällräven Kånken Art 13″ 0.4 Lifetime 11 recycled bottles
REI Flash 22 None 0.4 1-year bluesign recycled
Herschel Little America 15″ 0.9 Limited Recycled options
Arc’teryx Bora 30 15″ 1.5 Lifetime Fair-trade sewing

💬 Customer Reviews and Real-World User Experiences

  • Osprey Farpoint 40—4.8/5 across 12k+ REI reviews—“Took it around the world, still zips like butter.”
  • Herschel Little America—4.6/5 on Amazon—“Stylish but straps dig when overloaded.”
  • Quechua MH500—4.5/5 on Decathlon—“Best budget pack I’ve abused in the Pyrenees.”

We aggregated these stats in our Backpack Reviews portal—filter by rating, torso size, and water-bottle count.

🏁 Conclusion: Our Expert Verdict on the Top Backpack Brands of 2023

man in blue jacket with black jacket

After trekking through the wilds of backpack innovation, style, and durability, here’s the lowdown from Backpack Brands™:

  • Positives:

    • Osprey reigns supreme for comfort and lifetime support—if you’re a serious hiker or traveler, it’s hard to beat their ergonomic mastery and repair guarantee.
    • Herschel nails the style game with timeless designs that turn heads in urban jungles, perfect for casual users and fashion-conscious commuters.
    • Patagonia and Fjällräven lead the eco-pack charge, blending sustainability with rugged reliability.
    • JanSport remains the budget-friendly workhorse with a legendary warranty and classic appeal.
    • Arc’teryx offers top-tier performance and ultra-durable fabrics for those who demand the best, no matter the price.

  • Negatives:

    • Some brands like Herschel and Eastpak skimp on ergonomic features like sternum straps or padded hip belts, which can cause discomfort on heavier loads.
    • Luxury brands such as Tumi and Arc’teryx come with premium price tags that may not suit every budget.
    • Budget options like Quechua sometimes sacrifice advanced suspension for affordability, which may impact long-term comfort on demanding treks.

So, who should buy what?

  • If you want a stylish, everyday backpack that’s camera-ready for Instagram, go for Herschel Supply Company.
  • For serious outdoor adventurers who want comfort and durability, Osprey and Deuter are your best bets.
  • If sustainability is your north star, check out Patagonia, Fjällräven, and REI Co-op.
  • For students and commuters needing reliable, affordable gear, JanSport and The North Face offer excellent options.

Remember our early teaser about the perfect backpack for your lifestyle? Now you know: it’s less about the flashiest logo and more about the fit, function, and values behind the brand. Your back will thank you for choosing wisely.

👉 Shop Top Backpack Brands:

Books for Backpack Enthusiasts:

  • The Ultimate Hiker’s Gear Guide by Andrew Skurka — Amazon Link
  • Backpacking Light: The Ultimate Guide to Lightweight Backpacking by Ryan Jordan — Amazon Link
  • The Backpacker’s Field Manual by Rick Curtis — Amazon Link

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Backpack Brands 2023

What are the best backpack brands for travel in 2023?

For travel, Osprey, Arc’teryx, and Thule stand out. Osprey’s Farpoint and Fairview series offer versatile carry-on sizes with excellent suspension and durable fabrics. Arc’teryx’s Bora line features premium weatherproof materials and sleek designs perfect for rugged travel. Thule’s Subterra packs combine TSA-friendly laptop compartments with clamshell openings, ideal for airport efficiency. These brands balance comfort, security, and style for travelers who demand more than just a bag.

Which backpack brands offer the most durable options this year?

Arc’teryx, Osprey, and Eastpak lead durability rankings. Arc’teryx uses advanced composite fabrics with tear resistance up to 10× standard nylon. Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee backs their packs for life, repairing damage regardless of cause. Eastpak’s 30-year warranty and 1000-denier Cordura fabric make it a rugged everyday choice. For mountain or heavy-duty use, Mammut and Deuter also offer reinforced materials and robust construction.

What are the top eco-friendly backpack brands in 2023?

Sustainability is front and center with Patagonia, Fjällräven, and REI Co-op. Patagonia’s Black Hole series uses NetPlus fabric made from recycled fishing nets. Fjällräven’s Kånken Art line incorporates recycled PET bottles and eco-friendly wax treatments. REI Co-op’s Flash 22 uses bluesign-approved fabrics and recycled straps. These brands also offer repair services and encourage product longevity, reducing waste.

Which backpack brands provide the best value for money in 2023?

If you want value without compromise, look to JanSport, Kelty, and Quechua. JanSport’s lifetime warranty and classic designs provide durability at a budget-friendly price. Kelty offers adjustable suspension and solid materials for outdoor enthusiasts on a budget. Quechua, Decathlon’s brand, delivers rainproof, ventilated packs with hydration compatibility for under $60, making it unbeatable for casual hikers and students.

What are the trendiest backpack brands for students in 2023?

Herschel Supply Company, The North Face, and Fjällräven dominate the student scene. Herschel’s heritage-inspired designs and Instagram-friendly aesthetics are a hit with teens. The North Face combines ruggedness with urban style, while Fjällräven’s Kånken remains a timeless favorite for school and casual use. These brands also offer practical features like padded laptop sleeves and durable water bottle pockets.

Which backpack brands are known for ergonomic designs in 2023?

Osprey, Deuter, and Gregory excel in ergonomic innovation. Osprey’s AirScape back panel and adjustable harnesses provide exceptional ventilation and load distribution. Deuter’s Variflex hip belts and SL Women’s Fit models cater to body-specific comfort. Gregory’s Aero-mesh back panels reduce heat buildup and include rain covers for added convenience. These brands prioritize spine health and comfort on long hauls.

What features should I look for in top backpack brands of 2023?

Look for:

  • Adjustable suspension systems for a custom fit.
  • Padded, breathable back panels to reduce sweat.
  • Durable, water-resistant fabrics with DWR coatings.
  • Laptop compartments with padding and TSA-friendly access if you travel.
  • Hydration bladder compatibility for outdoor use.
  • Warranty and repair services to extend pack life.
  • Eco-friendly materials if sustainability matters to you.

For a detailed review of kids’ backpacks, see:

Thanks for sticking with us through this backpack odyssey! Ready to pick your perfect pack? Your back will thank you. 🎒✨

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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