18 Backpacks That Will Make You Rethink Your Go-To Bag
Your shoulders will thank you.


Backpacks have become the perfect choice for a hassle-free schlep across town. Gone are the days when you'd only spot backpacks on the shoulders of Coachella-goers—now, investing in a luxe leather backpack has become just as satisfying as getting your hands on that new Gucci shoulder bag you've been eyeing. Ahead, we've rounded up the best backpacks for every occasion, from the gym to the office, that will make you reconsider grabbing your tote the next time you walk out the door.
Everlane's minimalist ReNew backpack, made from 100 percent recycled polyester, can fit a 15-inch laptop. Plus, it's water-resistant for those unpredictable rain showers on the commute home from work.
Use this sporty skewing backpack as a gym bag, diaper bag, or a daily all purpose bag. A front snap pocket offers quick grab access while mesh side pockets and internal pockets will fit your water bottle and an extra pair of shoes.
This mini backpack is a versatile hands-free option that boasts a large front snap pocket and buckle straps that adjust for a customizable fit.
Madewell's sturdy canvas backpack is every boho lover's dream, and even has the option to be monogrammed.
This bag easily converts from a tote to a backpack. Try it once and you'll wonder how you ever made the office-to-gym commute carrying anything else.
Behold: a vegan leather bag that can be carried by the handle, worn over both shoulders, or slung over one arm without any worry that you're going to rip the straps. It has enough room to fit your entire life—laptop, tampons, lipstick, and all—and comes in black if you plan to keep it at the front of your closet year-round.
Blink and you'll almost mistake this backpack for a classic bucket bag. If you can afford to splurge a little, this soft leather silhouette is sturdy, beautiful, and has an easily accessible pocket to slip your phone into so it doesn't drown in your receipts.
The quilted pattern on this MZ Wallace bag is elevated, so you can sport it around laid-back work environments without looking like you're heading to the nearest music festival.
We might as well call this sleek leather backpack Mary Poppins because it's practically perfect in every way.
Paravel's leather-trimmed, water-resistant canvas backpack screams, "Take me to Italy!"
We love this backpack for its undeniable style, but also because each purchase provides four hours of employment to Parker Clay's team in Ethiopia.
This multi-wear bag comes with a variety of straps so you can don it crossbody style, like a shoulder bag, or a backpack.
It rolls up to the size of two pairs of socks, making it the perfect stowaway for any vacation that may need an all day excursion kind of bag.
This is not your middle school Longchamp tote bag—it's better. Meredith Blake would approve.
“I like my Skechers, but I love my Prada backpack." Wiser words were never spoken, thanks to Bianca in Ten Things I Hate About You. Prada’s nylon accessories are a '90s classic that are here to stay.
This natural woven backpack has an adjustable sling strap, so you can stay hands -free in high style.
Whether you're hiking on the mountainside or home from the grocery store, this colorful backpack is constructed from super-lightweight and durable ripstop nylon that won't weigh you down.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Julia Gall is the former Style Director at Marie Claire, covering all things fashion, as well as styling tips, wardrobe upkeep and sustainability. Check her out at @juliasgall.
-
Kate Middleton Refused to Abide by a 350-Year-Old Royal Tradition
She insisted on doing this one very important thing her way, according to a royal expert.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Taylor Swift Styles Gucci Sandals With a $4,000 Bag
The singer paired rich-girl accessorizes with her favored date night combo.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
The Weekend Hobby George and Louis Are Currently Obsessed With
"At weekends, we go from one competition to the next," Prince William revealed.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
13 Hailey Bieber Outfit Formulas Defining Her Laidback Personal Style
Copy and paste to your closet.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
8 Women Over 60 Share Their Age-Defying Fashion Wisdom
These eight style icons prove that age-appropriate fashion is a myth.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Margaret Qualley's Backless Chanel 2025 Oscars Dress Secretly Nods to 'The Substance'
The backward necklace is the cherry on top.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Embrace 2025’s Cherry Red Color Trend With These Delectable Accessories
Try the tart shade with accessories like glossy handbags and sweet slingbacks.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
I’m Crafting a Rich-Looking Wardrobe With These Luxury Spring Accessories
Follow my lead by shopping on-sale styles from SSENSE, Neiman Marcus, and Bergdorf Goodman.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
I’m Copying These Street Style Outfits I Spotted at New York Fashion Week
They're low-effort and high-impact.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Here’s What Marie Claire Editors Are Buying for Valentine's Day
From cherry red heels to sweet-smelling candles, we're oh-so in love with these products.
By The Editors Published
-
Hailey Bieber Is the Quintessential Rich Mom Styling a Fur Coat, Massive Designer Bag, and Luxury Stroller
The Rhode Beauty founder keeps expanding her collection of mom-friendly designer bags.
By Amy Mackelden Published