A recent video declared that if “you’re wearing a backpack, you’re not doing good.” Well, we don’t agree – in fact, we think that if you’ve got a good backpack while you’re travelling, you’re actually doing great. And if that backpack is sustainable, ethical, or from an independent business? Even better! So, if you’re determined to remain firmly in Camp Backpack, we’ve collected what we think are the best backpacks under £100 for travelling.
The Adventurer, Junkbox Apparel (£42)
We’re kicking things off with a beautiful backpack – in Dragon Trip colours, no less – from Junkbox Apparel. Founded and owned by Carrie from North Wales, all Junkbox’s items are sustainably made, with materials from UK-based suppliers and a commitment to minimizing environmental impact at its core. The Adventurer backpack is made from 100% recycled polyester, is PVC-free, and is the equivalent to 12 post-consumer bottles. It’s also got enough room for a few days worth of clothes, a 20L capacity, and is water-resistant for all weather conditions.
The Hackney 2.0, Kind Bag (£75)
Another 20L beauty comes from Kind Bag. The Hackney 2.0 comes in many sizes, but their large has plenty of space for the keen traveller. It’s got lots of pockets for storage – including a handy anti-theft one between the back padding and main compartment – and can even tuck away a 16-inch laptop should you need it. It’s made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, is vegan and cruelty-free, and Kind Bag donates 1% of sales to the 1% For the Planet project.
The Wanderer, Lefrik (£93)
Maxing out the budget – but coming in at a whopping 27L – the Wanderer has the same capacity as a cabin suitcase, with none of the wheely trouble. Available in either a beautiful blue or brown colour, it’s filled with compartments, and has a removable handle and chest strap to make transport as easy as possible. It’s made of 66 PET bottles, vegan, and on average the production saves 13.6L of water compared to a backpack made of new polyester. Though it just makes the cut financially as one of the best backpacks under £100, we think what it offers more than qualifies it.
Bantry B, ROKA London (£79.95)
Chic, minimalist, and a cool 21L, the Bantry is a stylish backpack that will comfortably hold everything you need. Though it’s available in three sizes, the large works perfectly for a good weekend away – or even longer, if you’re a very efficient traveller! Available in either recycled nylon or a recycled canvas option (whether you want sleek and shiny or textured and matte), these vegan backpacks are triple-coated to be weather resistant. ROKA is also B-Corp certified, meaning that they’re proven to be ethically-minded at every stage of the product journey.
Roll Top Backpack, Wave (£35)
For a smaller alternative that keeps you stylish, secure and sustainable during the day, Wave’s roll-top backpack is the perfect option. It’s an 18L bag which still has room to hold your everyday bits – and a decent sized laptop at that – making it the right size for a good hike or a busy city trip. It’s Global Recycled Standard verified, made of 40 recycled plastic bottles, and as a bonus, even features carbon neutral shipping. Wave also support Surfers Against Sewage, one of the UK’s leading marine conservation charities, and is also a member of 1% For the Planet.
