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Fashion meets function with these traveler-approved bags.
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Most of us have been using backpacks since grade school.
My nostalgia soars as I recall the monogrammed L.L.
Bean I once begged my parents to buy me.
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Just take a look at our best overall pick, theCaraa Stratus Backpack.
Ive owned this stunner for nearly five years.
This bag changed that for me.
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There are a whopping 15 total pockets and compartments, so its really easy to stay organized.
Its easy to overpack, which can make it feel heavy.
Years later, its lived up to the hype and then some.
In addition to being roomy and high quality, its also extremely practical.
My youngest is about a year away from being done with diapers forever.
There’s no dedicated laptop pocket.
MZ Wallace is one of associate editorAnna Poppsfavorite handbag brands for travel.
The personalization costs extra.
Crafted from vegetable-tanned Italian leather with a pared-down look minimalists will love, this backpack is deceptively roomy.
And since the pocket opens flush to your back, theres little concern over possible theft.
Some people may prefer more pockets.
Made from high-quality, full-grain leather, this backpack boasts a classic look backed by exceptional craftsmanship.
The interior is a streamlined design, though some people may prefer a bag with more pockets.
It definitely feels built to last, Popp said, who has owned theconvertible bagfor nearly two years.
The backpack straps are not padded.
For frequent travelers or anyone who packs high-worth equipment or valuables in their carry-on, ananti-theft backpackis a must.
However, the main draw here is its anti-theft capabilities.
Parker attempted to slash the bag with a box cutter and was unable to puncture the high-quality vegan leather.
There is a mesh back panel, however, it was not as breathable as we hoped.
Some backpacks are designed for style, others serve a specific function.
This Troubadour pack is our top pick in those instances.
Importantly, its also very comfortable to wear.
Easily the best part of this bag is the amount of padding on the back panel and straps.
It’s super cushioned, says Popp.
Its also a purchase you could feel good about.
Made entirely from recycled polyester, the whole bag can be responsibly recycled at the end of its life.
It tucks away neatly into a small zip pouch that can be stored inside larger suitcases or carry-ons.
It’s so easy to fold and get it back in the pouch.
No cramming or origami magic is needed.
It also is great to add organization as there are otherwise no pockets inside.
I love this backpack, Parker gushed after testing thepackable bagherself.
At nearly 22 inches tall, this pack may be too long for those with shorter torsos.
Confession time: until last year, I avoidedcarry-on backpacksfor longer multi-day trips.
Its that much of a game-changer.
Thats more than I can fit in most roller bags.
But perhaps best of all, even when fully packed, its comfortable to wear.
The padded backpack straps evenly distribute weight, especially when combined with a chest strap for more support.
And despite being so practical, its nice to look at, too.
I own it in the vivid forest green color for a nice pop of personality.
There isn’t a water bottle holder on the outside.
Inside of the included pouch are several small pockets for items like pens, chargers, and small toiletries.
The straps are not padded and a bit tricky to adjust.
A scaled-down version of Fjallravens popular Kanken backpack, this mini version works well for both children and adults.
For example, are you looking for a backpack as a replacement for an airplane carry-on or apersonal item?
Just do your research.
She also has extensive experience testing and reviewing travel products of all types, including backpacks and luggage specifically.
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