12 Best Backpack Brands for Work and Life 2023

A backpack is a must-have piece for people who travel a lot. It's convenient, lightweight, and space-saving, so you can easily bring it anywhere. But not all backpacks are good for everyday use, and everybody has their preferences when choosing the best brand. In this article, we go through our personal 12 top-rated backpack brands.

Backpack brands can make or break your backpack journey. You may have already been looking for a new backpack before reading this article. But how do you choose the right backpack for you? It's pretty easy. I've compiled a list of the best backpacks on the market today in my effort to help people find their perfect fit.

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Table Of Contents

1. Herschel Supply Co.

Herschel Supply Co. is a Vancouver-based backpack and accessories brand founded in 2009 by brothers Jamie and Lyndon Cormack.

Their products are known for their high-quality materials, attention to detail, and stylish design.

Some of Herschel Supply Co.'s most popular backpacks include Little America, Retreat, and Settlement. These backpacks feature a signature striped lining, a durable fabric exterior, and various pockets and compartments for organization.

The brand has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint. It supports the "For the Planet" collection in partnership with the American Forests organization.

Features

• Design-driven
• Emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility
• Credible brand

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2. Fjällräven

Fjällräven is a Swedish outdoor equipment company that has been in operation since 1960. They are well-known for their high-quality backpacks for outdoor activities, hiking, camping, and travel.

They offer detailed instructions on how to repair their backpacks, which helps to reduce waste and extend the life of their products.

Features

• Variety of backpacks for different needs
• Durable material
• Runs the Arctic Fox initiative, which supports other environmentally friendly organizations
• Multiple pockets to organize and access items while on the go.

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3. JanSport

JanSport backpacks are known for their classic designs, high-quality materials, and functional features.

This bag is a top choice for anyone who needs a reliable backpack for everyday use.

Features

• Lifetime warranty
• Come in a range of sizes and capacities
• Water-resistant to keep contents safe and dry

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4. Patagonia

Patagonia is a popular brand for outdoor gear, and their backpacks are no exception.

• Their collection of backpacks includes:
• Travel backpacks for hiking activities
• Black Hole backpacks for toughness and reliability
• Daypacks for daily use.

Features

• Committed to sustainability with their Worn Wear program
• Designed to withstand the wear and tear of outdoor activities
• Padded straps and back panels to distribute weight evenly

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5. Osprey

The history of Osprey Packs began when Mike Pfotenhauer, then a college student, made his first backpack in his mother's sewing machine in Santa Cruz, California. He later founded Osprey Packs intending to create innovative and high-quality backpacks for outdoor enthusiasts.

Osprey has an AntiGravity (AG) suspension system in the Atmos AG and Aura AG backpacks. It is a stretchy mesh fabric that spans from the top of the back down into the hip belt. It optimizes weight distribution in a way that maximizes comfort and support.

Features

• AntiGravity (AG) suspension system
• Lifetime guarantee
• Committed to social responsibility

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6. The North Face

Having been founded in 1966, it is until the 1970s when The North Face expanded its product line to include backpacks.

Their backpacks are made with high-quality materials such as Cordura nylon, ripstop nylon, and ballistic nylon that can withstand the rigors of outdoor activities.

The brand seeks sustainability through its Clothes the Loop program, encouraging customers to recycle their old gear.

Features

• Durable
• Eco-friendly
• Versatile for a variety of activities

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7. Timbuk2

Timbuk2 is a San Francisco-based company specializing in backpacks, messenger bags, and accessories for urban commuters and cyclists.

Some popular Timbuk2 backpack models include the Timbuk2 Command, Timbuk2 Spire, Timbuk2 Especial Tres, and Timbuk2 Uptown. These backpacks are designed to last for generations and seasons without a tear.

Features

• Customization program for own design
• Water-proof
• Durable materials such as ballistic nylon, Cordura nylon, and waxed canvas

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8. Deuter

Deuter is a German company producing high-quality backpacks for over 120 years.

Many Deuter backpacks have a ventilation system that circulates air between your back and the backpack, keeping you cool and dry during outdoor activities.

Their Green Shape program ensures that their products are produced in a socially and environmentally responsible way. Features

• Ventilation
• Eco-friendly
• Quality designs

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9. Gregory

In 1970, Wayne Gregory began selling his backpacks to local hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

In 1977, he founded his own company, Gregory Mountain Products. Over the years, the company has increased its variety of backpacks and travel gear.

The Gregory backpack has an adjustable suspension system that allows you to customize the fit according to your body size and shape. This system ensures that the backpack sits comfortably on your back.

Features

• Lightweight
• Customizable fit
• Lifetime warranty

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10. Kelty

The company was founded by Dick Kelty, an avid hiker, and backpacker who began making backpacks out of his garage in Glendale, California.

Kelty backpacks often feature innovative design elements, such as hydration compatibility, compression straps, and external attachment points for gear. These features make your outdoor adventures more enjoyable and convenient.

Features

• Innovative Features:
• Durable materials such as ripstop nylon and ballistic nylon.
• Made with comfort in mind

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11. REI Co-op

REI Co-op is a well-known outdoor gear brand providing high-quality backpacks and other outdoor gear since 1938.

They have a lifetime membership for $30. The membership comes with free shipping and discounts (if any) for your backpacks.

In addition, they offer a one-year warranty on their backpacks for members and 90 days for non-members.

Features

• Trade in program
• Warranty
• Lifetime membership

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12. Mammut

Mammut is a Swiss company producing high-quality outdoor gear since 1862.

Mammut's Active Spine Technology is a feature found in some of their backpacks. It is designed to provide increased freedom of movement and improved weight distribution, making the backpack more comfortable for extended periods.

The technology uses a flexible, anatomically shaped aluminum frame integrated into the backpack's back panel.

Features

• Gender-specific backpacks
• Sustainable practices
• Animal welfare
• Active spine technology

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Conclusion

Whether hiking, camping, traveling, or seeking something for everyday use, there is a brand among these 12 there that will meet your needs.

After going through the article, you only need to consider the capacity and purpose of using your backpack. Other than that, you're all set.

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