Traditionally, backpacks have always been seen as tools that are used to carry something from Point A to Point B. They’re rugged, they’re sturdy, and they’re meant to withstand the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But that doesn’t mean they can’t look good while doing it. If you’re searching for something simple and sleek that doesn’t sacrifice form over function, you need to check out the best brands to buy a minimalist backpack.
These backpacks are ridiculously clean. They’re decorated with sharp lines and swooping curves, and they stand out by blending in. With all that said, they’re also extremely good at what they do. Some have in-built laptop sleeves, others are completely covered in pockets throughout for all of your essentials, and there are also a few examples that just look – and feel – outrageously luxurious.
From independent labels to international fashion houses, there’s something here to suit everyone’s personal aesthetic, lifestyle, and – most importantly – budget. If all this sounds like something that you need, stop what you’re doing and take a look at 10 of the best brands to buy a minimalist backpack right here.
10 Best brands to buy a minimalist backpack
Velasca
Velasca, an Italian brand renowned for its timeless style and tradition, offers minimalist backpacks that transcend fleeting fashion trends. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship passed down through generations, Velasca ensures durability and sophistication in every product.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and using premium materials, Velasca backpacks exude timeless elegance while providing functionality. Whether for daily commutes or weekend getaways, their backpacks offer a perfect balance of style and utility, making Velasca the ideal choice for discerning gentlemen seeking both fashion and practicality.
Steele & Borough
Of course you can trust the Swedish to know exactly what they’re doing when it comes to minimalism. Steele & Borough was founded in 2015, and even though they haven’t even been around for a decade, they’ve managed to achieve more in this short period than most brands do in their entire lifetimes. That’s because even before they officially launched, they worked on hundreds and hundreds of prototypes for seven years just to get things just right. And it shows.
The very appropriately-named The Backpack is one of the greatest minimalist backpacks out there. From the zippers to the lining, all the way to the handles and the colourways, absolutely every detail has been measured, tested, rejected, and reworked again and again to achieve perfection. It also uses PETA-approved vegan materials, which is always nice to know.
Lundi
There’s just no way you can talk about the best brands to buy a minimalist backpack without giving Lundi a special shoutout. Based in Paris, the independent label is world-renowned for its pared back pieces. Coming in four models, the Giani and the Ruben are both made for a full day’s use, while the Antoine and Gaspard are big enough for an overnight stay – perfect if you don’t want to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Each backpack comes with their own distinct details and features, but something that they all have in common are the sumptuous grain leather constructions. The insides are all lined with recycled felt, and each one is delivered in a protective pouch to keep your bag nice and safe.
Roderer
Roderer is a master of all trades. Launched in Dubai in 2016 by legendary French designer Olivier Birault, not only are its bracelets, sunglasses, and wallets world-class, its backpacks are too. Inspired by the “less is more” concept that was pioneered by the greatest architects of the 20th century, these minimalist backpacks are designed to add a dash of luxury to your daily commutes and weekend getaways.
The Award is probably their most popular model. Handcrafted from soft grained Italian leather, it’s equipped with an ultra-practical front zip compartment and padded pockets inside to keep all your valuables organised. All of this is then finished off with the brand’s signature steel crown motif that’s inlaid across the front. What’s there not to love?
Mismo
There’s a bit of a romantic side to Mismo. While most brands are mostly just, well, brands, this Copenhagen-based company actually began in 2003 as a love story, and it was inspired by the simple idea of offering travellers and city dwellers some timeless luggage. Two decades later, and it has blossomed into one of the world’s most sought-after accessories labels, with minimalist backpacks that beautifully balance style and substance.
There are five unique models to choose from, but the M/S Backpack and the M/S Rucksack are probably the best of the bunch. Crafted from full-grain bridle leather, they’re decorated with brass hardware throughout for a luxe look and feel. Over time, the materials will begin to mellow with each use, developing a rich patina that tells its own story of the owner.
Carl Friedrik
Launched in 2013 by two brothers, Carl Friedrik has grown from humble beginnings into a purveyor of some of the world’s finest leather accessories. Over the past 10 years, the London-based label has carved out a nice cult following for itself thanks to its impressive hard-shell suitcases. However, that doesn’t mean you should overlook its minimalist backpacks.
Available in four legendary silhouettes, the City-Hopper is probably its best-seller. Made from versatile nylon, it’s packed full of cool features that make it the ultimate travel companion, whether you’re taking a slow stroll in Paris or frantically hailing a cab in New York. If you want something that’s a little bigger, be sure to check out the 72-Hour Backpack. As its name suggests, there’s enough space in this piece to last three whole days – perfect for a long weekend away.
Rains
It’s really no secret that Rains is most famous for its waterproof coats and puffer jackets that are worn by the coolest kids on TikTok, but the Danish outerwear label also has a knack for accessories as well. From pieces that are made for the daily grind, to ones that have been specifically designed for the harshest of winters, if you’re looking for stuff that will make your life easier and more beautiful, Rains should definitely be on your radar.
Rains is also known as one of the best brands to buy a minimalist backpack. Its very creatively-named Backpack is the most hyped one out there, but recently, it also introduced a bunch of new styles and silhouettes, such as the Book Daypack and the Sibu Rolltop.
Horizn Studios
Never heard of Horizn Studios before? Well, you have now. In its first year in business, the company launched the first luggage ever to feature a removable charger. Soon after, everyone from BMW to Beats By Dre all the way to Soho House wanted to work with them to create new and exciting carrying options. NASA astronaut Alyssa Carson also collaborated with Horizn Studios to design bags that were made for space. You could say they were out of this world.
However, back here on Planet Earth, its minimalist backpacks are some of the best in the world. There are so many different styles, models, and colourways to choose from, but no matter which one you end up going for, it’s good to know that they’re all crafted from luxury materials that are also sustainable and environmentally conscious.
WANT Les Essentiels
Founded in Montreal in early 2007, WANT Les Essentiels is rooted in the belief that sustainable design exists where function is form. Design for modern travellers and adventurers, the Canadian label’s minimalist backpacks are some of the best in the business. The Kastrup 1.0 and 2.0 are some of its most popular pieces, and they’re both made from water-repellent recycled-shell. They’re also reinforced with leather trims and have several compartments to keep your essentials organised and safe.
If you’re searching for something that’s a little more rugged and a lot more gorpcore, be sure to take a look at the Liam. Made with comfort in mind, this is created from matte ECONYL nylon with a soft mesh back panel and has plenty of sizable pockets throughout.
Tumi
A guide about the best brands to buy a minimalist backpack simply wouldn’t be complete without Tumi. One of the oldest and most storied companies in this article, it was founded all the way back in 1975, and over the past five decades, it’s been designing and creating the greatest carrying options known to man. Its suitcases and briefcases are wildly popular, but over the past couple of years, the New Jersey-based label’s everyday bags have also become pretty hyped.
There are literally hundreds and hundreds of styles and silhouettes to choose from, but if we had to pick one, it would probably be the Search Backpack. Released as part of the Alpha Bravo collection, it’s both modern and versatile, and is ideal for daily commutes to work or school, and for travels that take you farther.
Porter-Yoshida & Co
And last but certainly not least, we need to talk about Porter-Yoshida & Co. Established in 1962, each and every Porter bag is produced exclusively in Japan to the highest standards with the most exceptional craftsmanship. This ethos has remained true over the past 62 years, and considering how popular they’ve become, it’s not going to change anytime soon.
These Senses and the Tanker are two models that we just have to shout out. The durable nylon repels dirt and water, and the bags have a timeless appeal, which means they will both stay in style and last a lifetime. What’s more, Porter-Yoshida & Co has also made a big name for itself in the realm of streetwear. With collabs from the likes of A Bathing Ape, Palace, and Valentino under its belt, if you’re in the market for a minimalist backpack that’s the epitome of cool, this is exactly what you’re looking for.
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