Here are the Best backpack brands of 2025
There are so many name-brand backpacks out there–choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
I’m a big believer in investing in quality gear–gear that will last a lifetime. The best backpack brands offer a balance of quality, comfort, and design. The best backpack brands offer a balance of quality, comfort, and design.
Here’s my list of the best backpack brands for both men and women to help you choose!
1
Aer: Best Backpack Brand Overall
Aer is on my hypothetical list of the most underrated brands on the market. This brand makes stylish, sleek packs that are perfect for travel, fitness and everyday use. Aer’s most popular packs are made from X-Pac, a fabric originally used for high-performance sailing sails. The Aer backpacks are some of the best designed. Their bags have many clever features, including a padded computer sleeve. They also include comfortable shoulder straps and a padded laptop pocket. You’ll find expandable designs, hidden security pockets, functional compression straps, and IKEA-level organization.
Even with all the bells and whistles, Aer manages to keep their packs sleek, streamlined, and simple to use. The packs never feel cluttered. I’ll be honest, though, if minimalist designs are more your style, you may prefer a brand such as Rains.
My favourite Aer backpack would probably be the Travel Pack 3. This is one of the most popular carry-on bags. It is comfortable, easy-to-pack, and has many smart features. You can also get a smaller pack that is perfect for everyday use and weekend trips. Aer specializes in travel and urban backpacks. Many of their other packs (like the Daypack 2) have very comfortable padded shoulder straps and will work great for light-duty hiking, but if you’re looking for a dedicated hiking and outdoors pack, a different option.
2
AmazonBasics: Best Budget Backpack Brand
Everyone knows Amazon. Amazon’s plan to dominate the world is well-known (wait, wasn’t that a secret?) There’s no doubt that Amazon is a great place to shop for cheap items. Unfortunately, quality is often lacking when you buy from unknown brands on Amazon.
Amazon’s in-house brand AmazonBasics is out to change that with a range of decent, functional products at bargain prices. They make and sell everything from dress shirts to electric fans, and that includes backpacks.
AmazonBasics sells a good range of everyday bags for school, work, and running around town. They aren’t of the best quality and won’t win any design prizes, but they do the job. The AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack is a great bag to carry a laptop and other essentials. This bag has a padded laptop compartment that can hold devices up to 17 inches in size, making it better than other packs. The pockets on the sides are great for keeping water bottles, and there is a padded mesh back panel that makes it comfortable. There are nice water bottle pockets on the sides, and the shoulder straps and padded mesh back panel are decently comfortable.
Of course, if you do have a bit more money to spend, I highly recommend finding a bag with a bit more durability and quality. For anyone on a tight budget though, AmazonBasics will do the job.
4
Osprey: Best Hiking Backpack Brand
When it comes to outdoor backpacks, Osprey is a household name. Osprey is one of the top backpack manufacturers. Osprey has been making some of the best hiking backpacks on the market for decades. Osprey makes some of the most popular hiking backpacks. Comfort is a key feature of any Osprey backpack. Osprey has really dialed this in with their padded shoulder straps, breathable back panels, and supportive suspension systems.
Osprey packs are also typically loaded with well-thought-out features, from easy-access water bottle pockets to compression straps to waterproof covers.
One of my favorite Osprey packs is the Exos 58 (or Eja 58 for women). This is the best backpacking pack on the market. It’s not heavy enough to weigh you down. Weighing under three pounds. The supportive frame, padded straps for the backpack, an adjustable sternum belt, and a sturdy hipbelt help to distribute weight evenly. I also like the zippered pockets each side of my hip belt, and the stretchy slip pockets to hold water bottles. Also, pretty much the entire backpack is made from recycled materials!
With Osprey, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for…even if you’re just starting out. Plus, their backpacks are well-built and come with an awesome lifetime guarantee.
I’ve tested and reviewed quite a few Osprey packs in my day, including:
5
Tortuga: Best Travel Backpack Brand
Tortuga is one of the best backpack manufacturers out there (and certainly a favorite of mine). Tortuga makes some of the best backpacks for digital nomads and urban travelers. They only have three backpacks available at the moment! Whether you just need an overnight bag or are packing for long-term one-bag travel, one of their models will be a good backpack choice.
Tortuga makes backpacks that really excel at organization–with lots of pockets and a padded laptop compartment that’s ultra protective–and they make the perfect pack for digital nomads.
My top pick from Tortuga is their 40L Travel Backpack. This carry-on pack is perfect for one-bag traveling. The pack is durable, comfortable and spacious enough to accommodate longer trips. The laptop pocket is padded to keep your device secure and accessible. The padded straps and removable waist straps make for a comfortable carry.
Tortuga packs are built with a highly durable and water-resistant material that’s actually made of recycled plastic bottles. Tortuga’s high price is a downside. If you’re looking for something a bit less expensive, Aer sells some comparable packs at a lower price.
6
Timbuk2: Best Backpack Brand for College
If you’re looking for a backpack for college, you want something that’s stylish, functional, and comfortable. You might be living out of your backpack for long days on campus, so it needs to work well.
Oh, and it helps if it doesn’t cost more than a month’s worth of groceries.
Timbuk2 is a great brand for college students. They are known for their urban packs, which are designed to be sleek and stylish. The bags are made of high-quality materials with functional designs. Timbuk2 Custom Tuck Backpack allows you to design your own bag. Choose the color and fabric type for each of five fabric panels. Timbuk2 will then make your pack according to your specifications. You want a combination of hot pink with army green? It’s a bag that’s customized and looks great. It’s a great choice for college students, with its easy-to-access external laptop compartment, water bottle pocket, streamlined organization and comfortable shoulder straps. It’s also surprisingly affordable!
If you need a rugged hiking backpack, look elsewhere. But for most college students, Timbuk2 is an awesome choice.
7
NOMATIC: Best Laptop Backpack Brand
NOMATIC first got its start by raising $2.2-million on Kickstarter to create the most functional gear ever. They make backpacks, duffel bags, and a few shoulder bag designs.
NOMATIC has three main backpacks: the NOMATIC Travel Pack, the NOMATIC Backpack, and the NOMATIC Travel Bag. Honestly, the confusing naming system is my least favorite thing about this backpack brand.
Otherwise, NOMATIC backpacks are absolutely brimming with features–each bag has at least 20+ of them, including things like RFID security pockets, laptop compartments, pockets for your water bottle, and hip belts with pockets.
If you’re looking for the absolute best laptop backpack, the NOMATIC backpack is going to be your pick. This slim, understated backpack with many features is perfect for taking your laptop to school or work. This backpack has 24 compartments for keeping you organized. It also includes (of course), a laptop sleeve that is ultra-protective. A single water bottle is stored on the side. You can choose from two sizes: 14L or 20L. It’s also expandable to give you an extra 20% of space. Read my NOMATIC review for a deep dive.
8
Bellroy: Best Backpack Brand for Work
If you commute to an office, or even if you work remotely, you need a backpack that’s capable of carrying your laptop and other essentials in comfort and style.
Bellroy is an Australian accessories company that makes bags, folios, wallets, phone cases, and more. They are known for using sustainable materials made from recycled and plant-derived fabrics. They are designed to carry a laptop, as well as all of your essentials for the office. This stylish everyday bag is designed for commuters. The stylish, understated backpack is packed with useful features for today’s worker. This brand makes backpacks that are very stylish and professional. You won’t find many flashy colors or patterns, but for a simple, reliable backpack for business trips or commuting, Bellroy has some fantastic options.
9
Peak Design: Best Camera Backpack Brand
Photo: Jonathan Najarian
Peak Design makes some of the best backpacks for traveling photographers, hands down. Their backpacks combine the versatility of a traditional backpack with the functionality and features of a camera backpack–plus a few added features.
Peak Design makes a line of Everyday packs, totes, slings and carry-on bags that are roomy enough to store your camera gear and pack your regular travel items. You don’t need to be a professional photographer to use them. All of their products come with a lifetime warranty. The Peak Design Everyday Bag is the best camera backpack. This bag is a great alternative to other bags because of its sleek design, easy accessibility and excellent organization. Rearrange them and reorientate them to fit your needs. They also have structure and padding to keep your precious gear safe from impacts or scratching.
One of my favorite things about this bag is the side access. You can access the main compartment of the bag without having to open the whole pack. Simply unzip the side. There also are external pockets for a water bottle or tripod.
You’ll also find a full range of Peak Design accessories designed to integrate seamlessly with their packs. When you buy a piece of Peak Design gear, you can build on it with a full system of add-ons.
We’ve compared Peak Design with Tortuga and other luggage brands, and personally, I find Peak Design to be the best camera backpack brand
. I’m a sucker for clever, thoughtful design, and when I’m on the road, it’s often the small details that make the biggest difference.
10
Able Carry: Best Everyday Backpack Brand
Many of the brands on this list make great everyday bags, but Able Carry is an up-and-coming brand that specializes in durable, functional, and versatile backpacks for everyday use.
Able Carry’s packs are extremely well-thought-out, and it’s clear that attention was paid to every detail in the design. They feature lots of pockets and compartments to keep you organized, but not so many that it becomes overwhelming.
Their packs are also very sleek and stylish. There are minimal straps, buckles, or other components on the outside of Able Carry Backpacks, which make them look very streamlined.
By using materials like X-Pac and 1000D Cordura, Able Carry has made their backpacks take some abuse.
I highly recommend checking out the Daily Backpack from Able Carry. It has all the features for daily use, and is incredibly comfortable. Able Carry also has a range of other backpacks that are worth checking out. Whether you need a big load-hauler for carrying a lot of tech to the office or a compact bag for cruising around town, they have some great options for day-to-day use.
11
GORUCK: Best Tactical Backpack Brand
When you think of the best tactical backpacks, you probably imagine something made of burly materials with rugged construction and a ridiculous number of straps and buckles. The best tactical backpacks are made by GORUCK, a company that makes backpacks that have the rugged construction and burly materials you expect, but without all the extra complexity. In addition to their packs, they also sell a variety of fitness gear like sandbags and weight plates, and they are building an entire community around rucking for fitness.
Plus, GORUCK is a veteran-owned company, and they proudly make all their gear in the good old USA. The company prides itself on their legendary durability and offers one of the most generous warranties that I have ever seen. I can understand that, but it means you’ll pay more for a backpack from GORUCK. The GORUCK backpacks are not cheap, but they will last a lifetime. This pack has been tested and used by the Green Berets to take a laptop into combat. This pack has actually been tested and used by the Green Berets for taking a laptop into combat.
Everything about this pack feels burly and overbuilt. The pack is made of 1000D Cordura, which is nearly indestructible. It also has burly YKK zips. Every stitch on the bag was designed to withstand heavy loads and use. This bag is a lot more mainstream and minimal than many tactical backpacks, even though it has some “tactical features” like molle web. This bag would look great in the office. If you’re looking for a tactical backpack, though, the GR1 is sure to make you smile. If you’re looking for a tactical backpack, though, the GR1 is sure to make you smile.
12
Db: Best European Backpack Brand
If you’re not looking for something so obviously and proudly from ‘Merica, a European brand may fit your style more.
Founded in Norway, Db designs backpacks for surfers, skiers, mountain bikers, and even photographers–some of the world’s top athletes use Db. They also make a great range of streamlined everyday backpacks.
I love that Db is constantly innovating and doesn’t settle for industry-standard designs if they think they can come up with something better.
For example, the Db Hugger line of backpacks and luggage features padded sides with a built-in ABS “rib cage” that adds structure and protection without extra bulk and weight.
Another cool feature is their patented hook-up system, with quick attachment links (G-buckles) that connect multiple wheeled bags or backpacks together to make travel a breeze. If you typically carry a lot of gear, this system is a game-changer.
My favorite Db pack is the Hugger Backpack. This pack was designed by skiers for skiers. But it can do so much more. The rib-cage design keeps the bag’s shape whether it is almost empty or stuffed to the brim. It’s a great bag for everyday use and is easy to pack on weekends. The 12L stripped-back backpack has a simple, clean design. All their gear works together seamlessly, so if you like the idea of an integrated packing “system,” Db is worth checking out.
13
REI Co-op: Best Outdoor Backpack Brand
REI is instantly recognizable as the big retailer that sells hiking, biking, skiing, and other outdoor gear all over the country. They also have their own line of REI-branded gear that ranges from mountain bikes to underwear.
REI has been in the outdoor industry since 1938, so they definitely know what they’re doing when it comes to backpacks designed for the outdoors. The company uses durable materials, and has an excellent warranty and return policy. You’re likely to find exactly what you want at REI.
They offer incredible value. They offer well-made hiking and outdoor adventure backpacks at lower prices than competing brands. The REI Flash 22 Pack is a great all-around backpack for outdoor activities. The lightweight daypack can be used for a variety of activities, including long hikes and paddling on the lake. It has two large pockets to hold water bottles, as well as a main compartment and a zip pocket at the top. The shoulder straps are not very padded, but they are still comfortable. And the sternum belt allows you to adjust the fit. It is also a great option for carry-on travel or commuting to work. It also works well for carry-on travel or commuting to work.14
Photo: Jonathan Najarian
When it comes to men’s backpacks, Mission Workshop is an excellent top pick.
All of Mission Workshop’s backpacks are built proudly in America and combine durable construction, incredible functionality, and rugged yet refined styling. They have a little bit of a military look but are still streamlined and can be used in the office or in the city. The Rhake is my top pick from Mission Workshop. It’s water-resistant, durable and can be used for any purpose, including packing clothes for the gym, laptops for commutes, or gear and clothes for short trips. This backpack has internal and external zippers, compression straps on the sides, and hidden zippers. There is a big front pocket on either side of the pack, a hidden water bottle pocket, and a rolltop main compartment.
In my opinion, the Rhake is one of the best backpacks out there for everyday use. Mission Workshop is also one of the more expensive brands in this list. But you’ll have to pay a pretty penny for the privilege of wearing their backpacks on your back. But just remember–you get what you pay for.
17
Rains: Best Waterproof Backpack Brand
If you live somewhere with a rainy climate, getting caught out in a storm may be a fact of life. You don’t have to worry about your laptop or other items in your backpack getting wet. Rains is an “outerwear brand” that offers stylish, waterproof bags and clothing. Their backpacks are all made from the same signature PU material as their rain jackets. This means they are not only water-resistant, but also waterproof. My favorite Rains backpack is, well, Backpack. (Cool name, right?). This stylish, minimalist pack is a great choice for anyone who craves simplicity and wants to keep their stuff dry when the weather turns south.
There’s not much in terms of features with the Rains Backpack. The Rains Backpack has a large main compartment with a zip pocket for a phone. That’s it. Simplicity is the overarching theme of Rains’ product line. Simplicity is still the overarching theme across their product line.
With the uber-minimal city-oriented design, Rains packs aren’t for everyone, and you definitely won’t want to take one on a long trek through the mountains.
18
Matador: Best Packable Backpack Brand
Packable backpacks are great for trips where you need to bring more than one bag but don’t want to deal with the bulk of always carrying around multiple packs. A packable backpack can be squished down to take up less space.
I’ve found this especially convenient during travel when I have one main carry-on bag but want a smaller pack for day excursions.
There are a lot of packable backpacks out there, and most of them are not very good. Amazon has some packable backpacks that are incredibly cheap, but after a couple of uses they fall apart. Besides, they are usually uncomfortable and don’t have any features beyond a sack to hold your stuff and some shoulder straps.
Matador is a Colorado-based adventure and travel brand that has really cornered the market for high-quality packable packs.
The Matador Freerain 22 is one of the best packable backpacks on the market right now. Seriously. The pack is waterproof, comfortable and packed with features. It has a waterproof fabric, as well as internally taped seams that keep out rain. It’s worth it to spend more on a packable bag, or is it just a waste of money? That’s ultimately up to you, but if it’s something you’ll use a lot, I don’t think you’ll regret investing in a Matador backpack.
19
Pacsafe: Best Anti-Theft Backpack Brand
Getting your stuff stolen while traveling is a nightmare. What happens if someone steals your wallet? Your passport? Your brand new souvenirs from your trip *gasp*?
Having experienced travel theft firsthand, the founders of Pacsafe set out to make a product that offered some peace of mind while traveling. They developed a full range of anti-theft backpack technology to prevent thieves from opening, ripping, scanning, or grabbing your backpack and running off with your valuables.
Some of their innovations include slick locking zipper systems, RFID-blocking materials, cut-resistant steel mesh woven into the fabric, slash-resistant straps, and a system that lets you lock your backpack to a fixed object so you don’t have to keep eyes on it at all times.
These are some high-tech bags that are designed to put some serious obstacles in the way of a thief trying to break into or run away with your pack.
I recommend checking out the Pacsafe Eco 25L. This streamlined daypack combines all Pacsafe’s anti-theft technology with a comfortable fit, a roomy laptop sleeve, and recycled fabrics.
While an anti-theft backpack isn’t a surefire guarantee that your stuff won’t get stolen, it definitely helps. When a thief knows they can’t get into your bag, they’ll likely move on to someone else’s. Each brand has a different focus. You’ll have the best luck finding your perfect backpack if you know exactly what you need it for and how you will use it.
For example, if you need a comfortable hiking backpack for outdoor adventures, outdoor companies like Osprey will be a better fit than brands specializing in urban gear like NOMATIC.
Durability vs. Price
Ultimately, every purchase comes down to cost at some point. At least, it’s always a consideration. I’ve found that you get what you pay. That means if you buy a cheap no-name backpack from Amazon, I wouldn’t count on it lasting long before it starts to fall apart.
On the other hand, high-end brands may cost much, much more, but they build higher-quality products that will last a long time.
Fortunately, I don’t think you have to spend your life savings to get a good backpack. This list includes several brands that offer high-quality gear for reasonable prices. It’s not as cheap as Amazon crap but still pretty affordable. Do your research to find durable, well-made products. I’ve found that every brand on this list does a good job at making reliable packs and standing behind what they make.
Warranty
Going hand in hand with durability is the issue of a company’s warranty. Most brands on this list offer some sort of limited lifetime warranty and guarantee their product against any manufacturing defects.
A few brands, like Osprey and GORUCK, go above and beyond, with incredible warranty programs that promise to repair or replace any damaged product, no matter how old it is or how it was damaged (within reason).
I really respect brands that stand behind their products, and I recommend you take a brand’s warranty into account as you shop for a backpack.
Sustainability and Brand Responsibility
I’m a big proponent of the belief that every dollar you spend is a vote. With that in mind, it’s important to support brands that are using their influence to create a positive impact in the world.
I always try to buy from companies that prioritize sustainability and diversity, from what their products are made of to how they run their business.
There are a lot of ways to identify brands that are seeking to do good. Many backpack manufacturers are now switching to recycled material. There are also certifications like Bluesign, which rate companies on their sustainability.
Why Trust ? ‘s entire business model is built on providing you with the best possible information and recommendations. We take this very seriously. We are adventurers, traveler and gear enthusiasts ourselves and only recommend products that we would use ourselves. Over the years, I have developed relationships with several of the brands on this list. They are all top-notch. Each brand is the best in their field.
