10 Best Backpacks 2026 in the United States

The Fjallraven Women's Skule 28 Backpack offers a solid 28-liter capacity, which is suitable for day-to-day activities, commuting, or light travel. Its canvas material gives it a classic, durable feel, although canvas can be heavier and less weather-resistant than synthetic fabrics. Weighing around 750 grams (1.65 pounds), it strikes a reasonable balance between sturdiness and portability, but it might feel a bit heavier compared to ultra-light backpacks.

The size is moderate with dimensions fitting a 15-inch laptop compartment, making it a practical choice for students or professionals who want to carry their devices safely. Organization is decent, featuring zippered exterior pockets, as well as interior zip and mesh pockets, which help keep smaller items accessible and tidy. Comfort-wise, the backpack has shoulder straps and side and top handles, but it lacks padded back support or extra cushioning, which could affect comfort during longer wear.

Its simple black canvas design is versatile, appealing to those who prefer understated and functional looks over flashy or sporty styles. Durability should be good thanks to the robust canvas fabric, though it might require occasional care to maintain appearance. This backpack is well suited for those looking for a stylish, medium-capacity pack for everyday use with reliable organization but may not be ideal if you need very lightweight or highly cushioned options.

The Osprey Daylite Plus is a well-designed commuter backpack that suits everyday use, especially for casual day trips or light commuting. It has a moderate capacity with a large panel loading main compartment, making it easy to access and organize your belongings. The backpack also features an internal hydration sleeve, which is handy if you carry a water reservoir for longer outings. Weighing just about 1.29 pounds, it is lightweight and comfortable to carry, which is great for people who don’t want to feel weighed down. The size (roughly 8 x 10 x 17 inches) fits most users comfortably without being too bulky.

Osprey is known for durable materials, so you can expect this backpack to hold up well over time. The style is simple and practical in black, making it versatile for different settings. On the downside, while it has good organization options, it might not have enough compartments for those who prefer very detailed organization or need extra space for bulky items. Also, it’s best suited for light to moderate loads rather than heavy-duty use or large capacity needs.

This backpack is ideal if you want a reliable, stylish, and comfortable everyday pack that can handle daily commutes, casual outings, or short adventures without fuss.

The Fjällräven Skule 20 Backpack is a great choice if you're looking for a compact and versatile bag for day trips in the city or nature. With a 20-liter capacity, it offers enough space for essentials without feeling bulky. Made from durable, water-repellent recycled polyester, it should handle everyday wear and light rain well. Comfort is a strong point here, thanks to padded shoulder straps and a mesh back panel that helps keep you cool.

The backpack is well-organized, featuring a main compartment with a padded sleeve that fits a laptop and a front pocket with smaller zipped and mesh compartments to keep your items tidy. It’s also hydration-system compatible, which is a bonus for outdoor use, although you’ll need to buy the water bladder separately. Weighing only 8 ounces, it’s very lightweight, which adds to comfort during use. The size is compact but practical, measuring about 17 by 6 by 11 inches, fitting most adults comfortably.

In terms of style, its clean navy design is simple and functional, appealing to those who prefer a classic look. It is designed for lighter loads and shorter trips rather than heavy-duty hiking or carrying a lot of gear. If you need a durable, stylish, and well-organized backpack for everyday use or short adventures, the Fjällräven Skule 20 is a solid option.