Fashion and Style, Lifestyle

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style

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From daily commuting to gym sessions and traveling, a minimalist backpack is indispensable. Versatile, stylish and simply timeless thanks to their understated aesthetic, these bags offer a convenient solution to carry essentials, gear, and accessories in style and also in complete comfort. We have gathered a selection of the best minimalist backpacks that marry elegance, function, and ergonomics perfectly. While they share the same style, these minimalistic backpack designs vary in their looks, functional features, and price tag. Some bags come from minimalist brands like Aer, while others are designed by world-famous designers. Our list features everything from ultra-compact bags to spacious backpacks for minimalist travel, to help you find your new favorite backpack. Before we delve into our ‌backpack review list, let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions about minimalistic backpacks.

What is the size of a minimalist backpack?

Most minimalist backpacks have a standard size of 16-20 L, but you can easily find smaller or larger bags at specialized backpack and bag brands like Herschel, Aer, Incase, Peak Design, or stores like Amazon. Designs range from more compact backpacks you can use for the daily commute to a versatile laptop backpack and ultra-spacious, carry on backpacks for minimalist travel.

What are some features of a minimalistic backpack?

A minimalistic backpack is by definition extremely simple. However, that doesn’t mean that these backpacks are not practical or don’t optimize functionality. They usually have at least one external pocket or an easy-access compartment, as well as an internal padded laptop sleeve. Some designs have more than 4-5 pockets and also come with padded sleeves, removable straps, or dual carry handles.

What is the weight of a backpack?

An empty backpack usually weighs between 1 and 6 lbs. As for a fully packed backpack, it depends on the user and the type of travel – short- or long-distance. For short trips over the weekend, for example, a backpack that weighs over 20 lbs in not uncommon. For long-distance travel, backpackers usually prefer to keep the weight of their backpack between 10 and 20 lbs. Ultra—minimalists and those who prefer to travel extra-light often pack 10 or less than 10 lbs.

How many pockets does a minimalistic backpack have?

Depending on design, a minimalist backpack can have anywhere from 1 to 4-5 external and/or internal pockets. Some backpacks have more, but they are specially designed to either remain inconspicuous or have concealed pockets and pouches. Companies like Aer, Peak Design or Herschel offer a range of backpacks and laptop bag options to suit every need.

Why is it called a “minimalistic backpack”?

A minimalistic backpack, by definition, is minimalistic. This means that it has a simple design, without any unnecessary details, including bold logos or stitching. Some designs are more understated than others. For example, some minimalist backpacks seem to only have a main compartment, as they feature cleverly hidden external pockets.

What kind of backpack should I get for minimalist traveling?

If you’re looking for a carry on ‌backpack for travel, one that is similar to the popular ‌Osprey Farpoint or Peak Design backpacks, for example, there are plenty of options to choose from. We’ve included several travel bag designs in our ‌backpack review, but here are some things to look out for when buying a backpack for minimalist travel.

Firstly, make sure that the backpack is spacious enough to hold all your travel gear. Some bags come in two sizes, so if you find a bag you love, it may pay off to to get the larger version at an extra cost.  Secondly, check that the backpack has a size that allows you to take in on an airplane, as carry-on backpacks are incredibly convenient. And lastly, that it has at least one easy-access pocket for essentials you need to grab in seconds. You can also find designs directly from companies like Herschel, Aer, Peak Design, brick-and-mortar stores, Amazon, and more.

 

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Bellroy Transit Backpack

An extra large backpack.

Made by Bellroy, the Transit Backpack has an incredibly versatile, carry-on suitable design that makes it perfect for commuting, trips to secluded sites, and business travel. This is a laptop backpack that can handle it all and look beautiful in the process. It features a quick-access 16’’ compartment for a laptop and external pockets for EDC and other essentials. Plus, it has soft-lined pocket for sunglasses and a front pocket with a key clip. Comfortable to carry around all day, this minimalist backpack comes with padded shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and a contoured back. As for materials, the Transit Backpack features a durable, water-resistant fabric made from recycled materials and premium, eco-friendly leather. With a large capacity of 28L, this minimalistic backpack is one of the most spacious you can find.

Buy $249

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Aer Fit Pack 2

A stylish daypack that doubles as a gym bag.

The aptly named Aer Fit Pack 2 is specially designed to help you carry essentials and doubles as a versatile gym bag. Both stylish and practical, this minimalist backpack from Aer stands out with a front-load main compartment that provides easy access to the extra-spacious interior. The 18.7L backpack also comes with a ventilated shoe compartment, a padded laptop pocket, and pockets for essentials, valuables and accessories. Made to handle everyday wear and look gorgeous for a long time, the Aer backpack combines a 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon textile with Duraflex® plastic hardware and YKK® Japanese zippers. We love the black version of the Aer Fit Pack 2, but you can also get this minimal backpack in gray and navy colors.

Buy $135

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Black Ember The Citadel R2 Pack

A high-performance minimalistic backpack.

If you’re looking for a high-performance backpack you can take with you at the office or traveling, look no further than the Citadel R2 from Black Ember. This sleek backpack has a specially engineered, proprietary design that combines high-quality materials and practical features. For example, it has a waterproof 3-layer 800 denier MICROHEX textile exterior, a bonded seam construction, T6 aircraft-grade anodized aluminum hardware, and YKK Aquaguard zippers. This backpack is a pleasure to carry thanks to its 3D shoulder straps, EVA foam padding, and contoured back that is also breathable. Plus, the clamshell style allows you to open the main compartment 360 degrees. Other features include an internal compression divider to compress clothing, a laptop compartment, and a tablet sleeve. Every Citadel R2 pack comes with a handle, a removable sternum strap and a magnetic key ring.

Buy $239

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Harvest Label Tourer Backpack

A versatile backpack that changes shapes.

Inspired by vintage mill-spec designs, Harvest Label makes beautifully crafted accessories that blend function and minimalist aesthetics. Their Tourer Backpack is a perfect example. Designed with both versatility and durability in mind, this travel, commute, and laptop backpack features an incredibly sturdy 1000 denier Cordura fabric and vegetable tanned leather accents. The user can easily change this minimalist bag from a rectangular form to a more compact triangular shape, depending on their EDC needs. Apart from one zippered pocket on the front, the Tourer Backpack also features a water bottle pocket on the side and two more interior pockets. Additionally, a padded sleeve accommodates tablets and laptops with ease. At the back, a zipper provides quick access to the largest compartment. This everyday backpack also features a height adjustable sternum strap and two D-rings on the shoulder bands.

Buy $95

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Goruck GR1

A backpack with a lifetime guarantee.

The upgraded version of the popular Goruck GR1 backpack offers the same level of over-engineered performance and function, but in an even more versatile design. After four years of testing, Goruck added a 210D Cordura fabric on the back panel and shoulder bands that eliminate abrasion on both fabric and skin. GR1 opens flat for more convenience, allowing the user to easily pack and unpack their stuff. Made from a highly water-resistant material, this backpack also features an ultra-reinforced laptop compartment with a removable, hard plastic frame sheet. As for pockets, this backpack impresses with one elastic pocket, one large mesh zippered pocket and one go-to pocket in the interior and an easy-access slant pocket on the exterior. Manufactured in the USA, GR1 is TSA compliant and comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Buy $335

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Freitag FR06 Hazzard

A minimalist backpack made from recycled truck tarps.

Freitag stands out among other companies with an incredibly eco-friendly collection of backpacks, pouches, travels bags, and other accessories made from recycled truck tarps. Every product is made from used truck tarpaulin, car seat belts, and post-consumer PET bottles. Which makes the FR06 Hazzard backpack the perfect choice for the environmentally conscious. Featuring around 76% recycled materials, this backpack is as green as they come. And it’s also incredibly durable and tough to withstand many years of heavy daily use. The backpack boasts two handles, offering an easy way to carry it around. It also has a large external pocket and can easily hold laptops and tablets of up to 17’’.

Buy $390

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Mission Workshop Sanction Backpack

A backpack designed to last a lifetime.

Made with durability in mind, Mission Workshop’s Sanction Backpack impresses with a military spec. construction and highly sturdy materials. Safe to say, this minimalist laptop backpack will be by your side for a lifetime. Crafted from 1000D nylon, Sanction is completely weatherproof. It also features several weatherproof pockets and compartments where you can hold EDC stuff safely, rain or shine. Apart from the four internal pockets which include a zippered pocket for 15’’ laptops, this backpack has one external compartment. Other features include an internal frame sheet and urethane-coated zippers. Made in the USA, the Mission Workshop Sanction Backpack has a capacity of 20L.

Buy $255

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Millican The Core Rollpack

A conveniently adjustable roll-top backpack.

From the daily commute to traveling, you can always rely on the Millican The Core Rollpack to keep your stuff secure and organized. This 20 L backpack is conveniently adjustable thanks to an aluminum slider buckle that can either extend or reduce the volume of the bag to suit different needs. The Core is also a joy to carry thanks to ergonomic straps with foam padding and a padded back.
Multi-purpose and suitable for daily use and traveling in equal measure, this bag has a wide roll-top opening that offers easy access to the main compartment. It also features several internal and external pockets along with a bike light clip on the front. An internal padded sleeve can hold laptops and tablets of up to 17’’. Crafted to last, The Core Rollpack is made from recycled polyester with a water-repellent finish and features YKK zippers, aluminum buckles, and high-end nylon webbing.

More info

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Sandqvist Bernt

A modern classic backpack with leather detailing.

Part of Sandqvist’s Urban Outdoor collection, Bernt is a versatile backpack that can smoothly go from city streets to forests. Plus, it looks gorgeous. Versatile and practical, this backpack has a capacity of 21/25L and comes with a 13’’ laptop compartment. Pockets include a large exterior pocket with a zipper, two water bottle pockets, and one inner mesh pocket. The adjustable straps boast comfortable padding. On each side, compression straps provide an easy solution to adjust the size of the backpack as needed. Like other products from our list, this one is made to handle the elements and daily wear. Bernt features a water-resistant Cordura® EcoMade textile made from recycled polyester with an extra-tight weave that provides resistance to abrasions and scuffs. The backpack also features recycled webbing, recycled polyester lining, and heritage leather patch details.

Buy $200

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Chrome Industries Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop

A specially designed commuter bag.

Made by Chrome Industries, the Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop provides a complete EDC solution for urban dwellers. This updated bag features an upgraded design that makes it even more versatile and practical than the previous version. Featuring a 100% waterproof, proprietary welded construction, this backpack is both lightweight and sturdy, providing the protection and reliability of a dry bag in a commute-ready design. Created for city streets, this 20L backpack provides generous room for a 15’’ laptop, has an easy-access point to a watertight compartment for valuable essentials, and comes with more internal pockets that make organizing stuff easy.
The design also suits cyclists in particular, as the Urban Ex 2.0 features an improved shoulder harness and attachment hooks for u-lock and storage. Other features include ergonomic straps, an EVA back, two handles, and a durable synthetic rubber material on the bottom panel that complements the 600D polyester and nylon upper.

Buy $85

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Rains Rolltop Rucksack

A cycle-ready rucksack.

If you’re looking for a minimalist backpack you can easily take on the bike with you, this bag from Rains may be the ideal choice. While designed for all kinds of commuting, the backpack features a chest strap with a buckle fastening system and a front D-ring that can easily hold a bike lock. Made from waterproof polyester with a durable polyurethane coating, the bag also features a tactile strap and a practical rolling opening with a signature carabiner closure. The laptop pouch has side access for more convenience, while the back has soft padding for more comfort. This backpack also features a front zip pocket, a webbing carry handle, and adjustable padded straps.

Buy $125

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Octopus LOAC 2.0

A stylish and extremely sturdy bag.

Named LOAC, or Large Octo Airlock Cylinder, this bag from Octopus seamlessly marries refined design with extreme sturdiness. The brand calls this backpack disaster resistant thanks to the ultra-tough and durable waterproof coated textile and airtight construction. The roll top is convenient to use to fill and empty the bag and features a side fastening system. Apart from its good looks and durability, the LOAC 2.0 is also comfortable to carry around all day thanks to an ergonomic support system. Other features include welded and sealed YKK zippers, a welded and sealed front compartment, and a subtle brand logo finished in black.

Buy $120

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Carhartt Work In Progress Black Philis Backpack

A recycled canvas backpack.

Part of the Carhartt Work In Progress collection, the Philis Backpack blends style and function with extra-durable materials. The practical bag is conveniently expandable, allowing the user to adjust the size of the main compartment as needed. Made from recycled canvas, the backpack is water-repellent and sturdy. The unlined interior features a padded pocket for laptops of up to 15’’. On the front, there’s a flat pocket and zippered compartment, but the sides also feature zip pockets, for extra storage space. The adjustable straps provide an easy way to find the perfect fit while the padded back is also breathable thanks to a mesh textile.

Buy $120

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Côte&ciel Sormonne EcoYarn Backpack

A backpack inspired by a river.

Simplicity at its best, the côte&ciel Sormonne EcoYarn Backpack is elegantly minimalist and modern. The design takes inspiration from the tranquil waters of the Sormonne river in northeastern France. The backpack has a beautifully rounded shape with no superfluous elements or detailing. Two flat pockets with concealed zips offer storage room for essentials. The user can easily access them while wearing the bag over one shoulder. Inside, there’s an interior compartment that fits laptops of up to 13’’. Made from matte black EcoYarn, a durable polyester fabric produced through sustainable processes, the Sormonne EcoYarn Backpack is resistant to water and sturdy. Other features include a two-way zip closure and pen slots.

More info

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Arcteryx Veilance Nomin Backpack

An ultra minimalist design.

Part of the Arcteryx Veilance collection of urban accessories, the Nomin Backpack is stylish and minimalist as well as extraordinarily lightweight and durable. The outer fabric only features stitching detailing in a matching black color. Waterproof and heavy-duty, the material also features taped seams and WaterTight™ external zippers. To keep the design as minimal as possible, the straps are low profile and they have a hidden adjustment system. Likewise, the top handle is discreet and integrated into the top of the bag. At the front, there’s a large storage compartment with a key hook, while at the rear there’s an easy-access pocket and a rigid laptop divider with a hidden magnetic closure.

Buy $800

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Master-Piece Orange Link Backpack

A more eye-catching design.

The Orange Link Backpack from Master-Piece stands out with a bolder color and stylish leather trims. Perfect to brighten your commute, the bag is made from 100% durable nylon twill that is waterproof. Several pockets, both on the interior and the exterior, offer generous room for essentials and items of various sizes. Apart from a front pocket with carabiner fastening, the bag also features two side pockets and an interior zip pocket. The main compartment boasts a two-way zip closure, for more convenience. In terms of style, this backpack impresses with Saffiano leather trims and a leather woven logo patch. Straps in contrasting black complete the design. The Link backpack is made in Japan.

Buy $235

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Bao Bao Issey Miyake Hiker Backpack

A backpack for the fashion-conscious.

One glance at the Bao Bao Issey Miyake Hiker Backpack, and it’s clear that this is a head-turner. While still preserving the minimalist aesthetic, the backpack features an intricate triangular pattern that gives an almost 3D effect to the material. Made in Japan, the backpack features a polyurethane-coated cotton canvas fabric and buffed leather trim in matching black. As practical as it is distinctive, the Hiker Backpack features patch pockets on the sides, a zip pocket on the fold over flap, a padded laptop pocket, and an interior zip pocket. The back mesh panel is padded, while the shoulder bands, sternum strap, and side cinch straps are all adjustable.

Buy $1320

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Lacoste Navy Coated Backpack

A practical backpack for everyday use.

All of the minimalistic backpacks from our list blend understated design and function. This bag from Lacoste is no exception. Made from coated ripstop with a dark navy color, it features a trim in black and navy throughout. The front features a zip pocket, while the interior has a laptop sleeve. A convenient two-way zip closure makes opening the backpack as easy as possible. Adjustable padded straps and a padded mesh back panel enhance the user’s comfort. Cinch straps provide an easy way to expand or contract the bag as needed. This Lacoste backpack features a rubberized logo patch on the front and side and subtle branding on the side.

Buy $145

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Timbuk2 Especial Supply Roll Top Backpack

A weatherproof backpack for daily commutes.

Featuring a more compact size than the Timbuk2 Especial Shelter Roll Top, the Especial Supply backpack is perfect for daily commutes. The bag maintains the same high-performance construction of the original, including the fully seam-sealed compartment and entirely weatherproof build. The black on black palette also makes the backpack more versatile and easy to wear with different outfits. Made with a roll top opening, the backpack allows the user to contract or expand the compartment as needed, from 19.5L to 22.5L. The top easily closes with a magnetic closure. Both padded and ventilated, the rear panel enhances comfort and breathability. Inside, there’s a pocket for a 13’’ laptop or other devices, while on one side a compartment stretches out to accommodate a water bottle.

Buy $169

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Meanswhile Gray Drawstring Backpack

A drawstring-style bag.

If you prefer drawstring-style backpacks, this one from Meanswhile is the perfect choice. It’s simple and practical as well as versatile. Plus, it’s made in Japan from high-quality Cordura® ripstop nylon to be by your side for a long time. The shoulder bands are adjustable and also feature a sternum strap. At the top, a webbing handle allows the user to carry the backpack in one hand with ease. Great as a duffel gym bag as well, this backpack features eyelet vents on the base. As for pockets, it has mesh patch pockets in the front and an interior patch pocket. This version comes in a versatile palette of black and silver gray.

Buy $190

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

A.P.C. Reset Backpack

A backpack with removable straps.

One of the most creative designs from our list, the A.P.C. Reset Backpack has a minimalist, streamlined design with a drawstring and stopper. Unlike most backpacks, this one features removable back straps. This means that the user can easily carry the bag by hand with the two faux leather handles. Inside, there’s nylon taffeta lining. Apart from the zip pocket at the front, this rucksack features a compartment with an A.P.C. logo drawstring closure. Other features include a metal key ring and an A.P.C. eyelet that is the signature design element of the Reset collection.

Buy $320

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Tiger of Sweden Berrent Backpack

A minimalist leather backpack.

Crafted from LWG-certified grained cow leather, the Berrent Backpack from Tiger of Sweden is one of the most durable and wonderfully tactile bags you can find for your everyday carry needs. Apart from the leather construction, this unisex bag also features polished silver metal hardware and twill polyester lining. Stylish yet also designed with function in mind, this leather backpack features a two-way zipper and one top handle. A pleasure to carry even full, Berrent features a body-contact back and padded adjustable straps. The pockets include one at the front with a convenient magnetic snap closure, a zip pocket in the interior, a slip pocket, and a laptop compartment that can hold laptops of up to 15’’. The backpack has a capacity of 17L and comes in versatile black leather.

Buy $445

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Porter-Yoshida & Co. Tanker Backpack

A compact daypack inspired by U.S. Air Force jackets.

Compact, elegant and practical, the Porter-Yoshida & Co. Tanker Backpack is perfect for daily use. It’s crafted to last from padded nylon twill and it’s also hand-sewn by a one craftsman. Originally launched in 1983, the Tanker collection is one of the brand’s most popular series. The backpack follows the same military theme, with the material giving a nod to the flight jackets worn by U.S. Air Force pilots. Apart from the nylon twill fabric, the backpack features an intermediate layer of polyester cotton and a nylon taffeta lining in a “rescue orange” color. All metal parts, including the zippers and carabiner-style hooks will develop a beautiful patina over time. Lightweight and sturdy at the same time, the bag is made in Japan and comes with YKK zippers. It has a capacity of 10L and features four pockets, two on the exterior and two in the interior.

Buy $390

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Nanamica Khaki Day Backpack

A bag inspired by utilitarian design.

Made by Japanese brand Nanamica, this day backpack has a minimalist, versatile style inspired by utilitarian design. The backpack is ideal for essentials, whether you want to go to the office or the gym. Manufactured to handle daily use with grace, the bag is crafted from an extremely sturdy and lightweight Cordura® cotton blend ripstop material that has a water repellent coating. A branded leather label and leather strap adjusters complete the design. As for pockets, this backpack features a zip pocket and a patch pocket in the front and a main zip compartment. Apart from padded straps, the Nanamica Khaki Day Backpack has a top carry handle.

Buy $330

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Belstaff Roll Top Backpack

A mid-size backpack with a roll top design.

Designed with a high-tech aesthetic, the Belstaff Roll Top Backpack optimizes function and durability in a premium quality construction. This long-lasting, mid-size backpack has an ultrasonic welded rubber construction that provides excellent protection against the rain. The waterproof material has a matte black finish and features a discreet brand logo in the same black hue, but with a polished surface. The spacious interior compartment has a zip closure, just like the front compartment. Internal pockets offer a practical way to organize essentials and keep them secure. Other features of this Belstaff backpack include press-release straps and a mesh and satin lining.

Buy $290

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

PS by Paul Smith Happy Backpack

A bag created by a renowned fashion designer.

Part of the Happy collection created by British fashion designer Paul Smith, this backpack is both stylish and practical. It’s made from 100% nylon with a tactile and eye-catching crinkled texture. Slate blue webbing trims and an embroidered logo with the series’ name complete the bag’s design. Inside, the Happy backpack has soft twill lining, an internal zip pocket, mesh pocket, and a laptop sleeve. A front zip pocket provides a practical storage space for essentials you want to access with ease. At the same time, the long exposed zip adds a distinctive accent to the design. The adjustable straps boast padding to make carrying the bag all day comfortable.

Buy $290

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Master-Piece Black 3Way Backpack

A backpack you can carry in different ways.

While they feature the same blend of understated elegance and function, all of the minimalistic backpacks from our selection offer something different. For example, the Master-Piece Black 3Way Backpack allows you yo carry it in different ways thanks to a padded leather handle, a detachable shoulder strap, and a D-ring at the back. Made from paneled coated nylon twill, the bag also features a polyester satin lining and vegetable-tanned leather trims. The outer fabric is water repellent, while the lining is antibacterial. In terms of storage, this backpack offers plenty with a front zip compartment with four patch pockets, a laptop compartment, and interior zip pockets. The Master-Piece Black 3Way Backpack is made in Japan.

Buy $250

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Yohji Yamamoto Black Discord Y Backpack

A backpack created by an avant-garde Japanese designer.

Part of the classic discord Y series of staple accessories created by avant-garde Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto, the Black Discord Y Backpack offers a stylish solution to carry essentials. Reminiscent of a piece of clothing, the bag has a triangular shape and hangs like drapery. Made in Japan from grained cow leather, the backpack has a minimalist look, with all the functions concealed at the back. A back zipper offers access to the interior, keeping the minimal design of the bag intact and also making the backpack extra-secure. On the back, there’s also a zip pocket for smaller items, with another zip pocket added in the interior. The discord Y backpack also feature twill lining, adjustable shoulder bands and a logo appliqué on the base.

Buy $1860

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

and Wander Heather Backpack

A backpack with bungee-style drawstrings.

The and Wander Heather Backpack optimizes function with bungee-style drawstrings that also create an eye-catching pattern. More than just aesthetic elements, the draw cords allow the user to compress items if needed. Made from a nylon fabric, the backpack boasts a PU coating for impressive water-resistance and durability. Apart from the drawstrings on the front and sides, the bag features a logo-woven carry handle and branding on the front. Press-release sternum straps, waist straps, and padded shoulder bands enhance comfort, along with the padded jersey back panel. This and Wander bag features a patch pocket on the side, two-way zip closure, and both patch and zip pockets in the interior compartment.

Buy $180

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Jan-Jan Van Essche O-Project Backpack

A cotton and linen blend backpack.

The Jan-Jan Van Essche O-Project Backpack is a great choice for those who like to take only the essentials to the office or to travel ultralight. More compact than other backpacks from our list, this design from the O-Project collection still offers plenty of space for accessories, gadgets, and other gear. Made from a cotton and linen blend canvas, the bag is lightweight and tactile as well as durable. It has a fold-over flap enclosure, a concealed drawstring at the throat, and a fixed carry handle. The backpack also features a patch pocket inside the compartment, an unlined interior, and adjustable straps. Made in Japan, the Jan-Jan Van Essche O-Project Backpack comes in different colors, including Khaki, Dark Gray, and Black.

Buy $320

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Côte&ciel Isar M Backpack

A subtly futuristic design.

Inspired by both architectural elements and futuristic design, the côte&ciel Isar Backpack stands out and is one of the best minimalist backpacks you can find. Apart from its eye-catching asymmetry, this bag offers a balanced blend of comfort and function. It features a water repellent coated polyester material with a rubberized finish, breathable mesh details on the sides, straps, and back, and a light gray lining. Inside, a padded compartment can easily hold a 15’’ laptop or other devices. In addition, Isar M features an external pocket for documents, two internal pouches, and a concealed side pocket. A two-way zip closure, carry handle, and adjustable padded straps complete the design.

Buy $365

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Norse Projects Hybrid Backpack Cordura

A backpack that doubles as a tote.

Part of Norse Projects’ collection, the Hybrid Backpack Cordura is a 2-in-1 product. The adjustable padded straps can be stowed neatly into the back compartment, effectively transforming the backpack into a tote. Lightweight and compact yet also spacious, this bag is perfect for everyday use. It features a zip pocket on the front and both patch and zip side pockets which the user can easily access when needed. An internal mesh pocket keeps items more secure. Additionally, the Cordura® nylon ripstop material is double reinforced in crucial areas. Other features include a drawstring at the throat, a twin webbing carry handle, and a subtle logo on the front.

Buy $235

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

Engineered Garments Khaki UL 3Way Backpack

A backpack and shoulder bag in one.

If you’re looking for an exceptionally versatile design that is also practical and modern, you’ll probably love the Khaki 3Way Backpack from Engineered Garments. This canvas backpack has twin carry handles and a detachable shoulder strap, allowing the user to carry it in three different ways. This version boasts an olive color and contrasting black straps. Both patch pockets on the sides feature bungee-style drawstrings, just like the central compartment. Another zip pocket in the front offers room for easy-access essentials, while an interior zip pocket provides a practical way to keep valuables more secure. This backpack is unlined and features a logo patch detail.

Buy $265

Minimalist Backpack Designs to Carry Essentials in Style - Gessato

C.P. Company Metropolis Series Dynafil Backpack

A practical backpack with multiple zip pockets.

Part of C.P. Company’s Metropolis Series, the Dynafil Backpack is stylish and incredibly practical. This medium sized bag features several pockets that provide an easy solution to organize and carry essentials, whether to the office or while traveling. The central compartment is easy to access through the roll-top design. A cinch strap allows the user to secure the backpack quickly. This design stands out with a high number of pockets that offer generous room for items, both inside and on the exterior. The sides, front and back all feature zip pockets, while the interior also has a separate zip compartment. A padded pocket keeps laptops safe in transit. This backpack features a front logo patch, a webbing carry handle, and a sternum strap.

Buy $299

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The Chäserrugg Mountaintop Restaurant

We Rural Country House

Linn Sondek LP12-50 50th Anniversary Edition

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