You may be somebody beginning a new school and want your school supplies and tablet to be carried in a sturdy and fashionable mini backpack or you might still be working and need a nice bag for your things. For several kinds of people, a mini backpack is a favorite. Whether you’re camping, picnicking or even a casual day trip around the area, carrying a bag to hold your basics is important. You don’t want to wind up on a boat trip with your kids and not be armed with sunscreen and drinks. Handbags are helpful, but they’re not simple to handle but there’s not always plenty of storage for your extra things.
If there is one important item a person needs while walking or flying about, the best mini backpacks are what you can’t live without. Or, whether you’re looking to purchase it for yourself or to offer it as a special present to family members, acquaintances or anyone extraordinary, there are different features and purchasing criteria that need to be taken into account to ensure that it not only makes you appear more chic, but also makes it more functional and useful. Mini backpacks are considered a really stylish and practical way to hold the necessities of daily life without damaging your back and without appearing too large.
In a Hurry? The test winners after 10 hrs of research
LCFUN Cute Mini Leather Backpack – Best Value
Why is it better?
- The backpack straps adjust pretty long
- The secret pocket is perfect for putting your credit card/ID/cash
- Sturdy and well made
- Does not look cheap
Fjallraven, Kanken Mini Classic Backpack for Everyday – Premium Pick
Why is it better?
- It is very durable
- The back handles are well-formulated to prevent back problems
- The logo is matte and reflective
- Material is great
Best Mini Backpacks – Overview
Mini backpacks have to be one of the most portable and trendiest bags on the market. Planning a hike? Pack your snacks, drink, and maps with ease. Exploring a new city? Anything you need to travel can fit comfortably on your back. Working in a packed city? Easily place your tablet in your mini bag. Full-sized backpacks are fantastic but occasionally, particularly if you’re going through a busy area, you don’t want anything so bulky. This is why we compiled the 10 best mini backpacks for your next hike or travel.
Mini Backpacks Reviews
1. LCFUN Cute Mini Leather Backpack – Best Value
LCFUN Cute Mini Leather Backpack is a simple, cute, and feminine type of small bag, with the Bowknot on the leather backpack, adds some cuteness, looking fresh and young, and will catch everyone’s eyes. Clean stitching and high-quality metal accessories for durable use, it also has 1 sewed top short handle and adjustable double shoulder straps for extra comfort and allows you hands-free carrying.
It has a large main zip compartment with 2 internal slip pockets for your cell phone, power bank, iPad mini, wallet, and makeup, 1 exterior rear zip pocket for security essentials, 1 front flap pocket, and 6 side slips for easy access.
Key Features:
- 7 different pockets
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Zipper closure
- Polyester lining
Specifications:
- Brand: LCFUN
- Dimensions: 10.23″ H x 9.05″ W x 5.51″ D
- Weight: 1.05 lbs
- The backpack straps adjust pretty long
- The secret pocket is perfect for putting your credit card/ID/cash
- Sturdy and well made
- Does not look cheap
- Not waterproof
2. Fjallraven, Kanken Mini Classic Backpack for Everyday – Premium Pick
Meet the mini version of the classic Kanken, Fjallraven, Kanken Mini Classic Backpack for Everyday, same design, smaller size. Stash everyday essentials in the main zippered compartment, front zippered pocket, and two open side pockets. The material, Vinylon F, has a weird name but it’s dirt-resistant, water-resistant, and wipes clean.
This bag is functional with a two-way zipper with rain flap for protection, long adjustable shoulder straps for comfort, dual top snap handles for quick carry, and a reflective logo. Whether you need a mini backpack for travel or just for everyday use, this bag is for you.
Key Features:
- Vinylon F material
- Two-way zipper with rain flap
- Dual top snap handles
- Long adjustable shoulder staps
Specifications:
- Brand: Fjallraven
- Capacity: 7L
- Dimensions: 11.4″ H x 7.9″ W x 5.1″ D
- Weight: 0.5 lbs
- It is very durable
- The back handles are well-formulated to prevent back problems
- The logo is matte and reflective
- Material is great
- The small front pocket can barely fit anything as well except for maybe a wallet, portable charger, hand sanitizer, and other small items
3. HotStyle BESTIE Mini Backpack
Tired of carrying around a huge purse all day long? Upgrade to the HotStyle BESTIE Mini Backpack, with a perfect size for ladies who do not want to carry a large size backpack. Extremely convenient and comfortable for any situation: going out in the city, flying/traveling, hiking, taking walks, going to work/school/beach/theme parks, or even just to carry everyday.
It is mini but fits as much inside as a large tote, but you can carry it without making the shoulder ache and being hands-free. With different pockets of all sizes that keep things organized so you can easily find anything. Plus, the little pack comes with a variety of fun, hot colors and cute prints, affordable priced just awesome for stocking up.
Key Features:
- Easily repels rain/snow
- Pockets are everywhere
- Stylish & flexible utility
- Hot colors & prints
Specifications:
- Brand: HotStyle
- Capacity: 12L
- Dimensions: 11.8″ H x 8.3″ W x 4.7″ D
- Weight: 0.8 lbs
- The zippers seem to be of decent quality as well
- Plenty of pockets, great interior organization
- A lot of color choices
- Fabric seems very durable
- The back pocket is a little too small
4. American Shield Girls Mini Backpack
This American Shield Girls Mini Backpack features cute easy to open and close zipper tags, a main zippered pocket, two side pockets for water or mike, a front pocket that can easily carry your belongings for wallet, key chain, etc. This backpack is with the main compartment for storing clothes, iPad, toys, makeup, umbrella, cell phones, pencil pouch, and so on.
The cute unique pattern is ready to be the most important parts of this stylish & lightweight & large capacity backpack. The dedicated and sturdy stitch makes it firmly and lasts for a long time. This bag is comfortable thanks to the mono strap that makes it easy to wear on your front or on your back
Key Features:
- High-quality PU leather
- Mono strap
- Inner zippered pocket
- Water and tear-resistant material
Specifications:
- Brand: American Shield
- Capacity: 12L
- Dimensions: 10.5″ H x 10″ W x 6″ D
- Weight: 0.9 lbs
- Has two small pockets on the inside to hold a small bottle of hand sanitizer or lipstick
- The front outside pocket is perfect for snacks
- Pretty spacious on the inside for being small
- Straps are comfortable and easy to adjust
- The side pockets are small
5. JanSport Half Pint Mini Backpack
Small and light, the JanSport Half Pint Mini Backpack is the perfect throw-on-and-go miniature backpack. The miniature backpack is ideal for sightseeing, daypack & travel. Hands-free freedom in carrying your essentials. It has a small profile yet plenty of interior space to keep your personal items safe & organized.
JanSport miniature backpacks are made with durable fabric, zippers & straps in colors & designs to reflect your style. Generations have grown up & come to rely on this trusted brand. Over 50 years of schools, work, road trips, discovering fun, freedom & adventure. Make sure you also check our selection of the best JanSport backpacks.
Key Features:
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Front utility pocket
- One main compartment
- Web haul handle
Specifications:
- Brand: JanSport
- Dimensions: 11.2″ H x 9.8″ W x 4.1″ D
- Weight: 0.4 lbs
- Relatively water resistant
- The main compartment is very spacious
- The smaller pocket in the front works great for my things a small wallet
- Lifetime warranty
- The straps are plain thick nylon, could have some more padding
6. adidas Originals Womens Santiago Mini Backpack
All the rage is in mini backpacks, and this trendy and light version is the perfect sporty companion to your everyday style. For an on-the-go storage option that is as functional as it is trend-setting, pair the adidas Originals Womens Santiago Mini Backpack with your favorite jeans and sneakers.
This backpack has a sleek build which is ideal for stashing your daily needs. The zip pocket at the front has an internal fob to lock your phone. At the front, the backpack comes with a Trefoil logo design.
Key Features:
- Screen-printed branding
- Nylon zippers
- Interior woven label branding
- Main compartment with pocket
- Front pocket with key fob for smaller items
Specifications:
- Brand: adidas originals
- Capacity: 5L
- Dimensions: 9.5″ H x 7″ W x 4.5″ D
- Weight: 0.5 lbs
- It has a pocket sewn into the back of it on the inside which is great for small items
- Outer smaller zipper enclosure
- Mini yet all the durability of a regular sized backpack
- The straps are super long
- Not super comfortable against your shoulders
7. HITOP Mini Backpack
The HITOP Mini Backpack is made with durable canvas fabric with comfortable and adjustable shoulder straps, evenly distributes weight on your shoulder. Ideal for reducing back pain when you use it as a normal purse. Straps can be adjusted from 23.6″ to 31.5″. This lightweight bag can be used as a mini backpack purse, chest bag, sling bag, and one shoulder bag, optimal for any indoor, outdoor travel activities.
Ideal size for carrying a variety of items such as clothing, sporting gear, daily supplies, etc. Comes with a convenient front zipper pouch and an inside pocket to store your cell phone, wallet, and other small items.
Key Features:
- Thicken breathable straps
- Made with high-grade durable material
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Lightweight
Specifications:
- Brand: HITOP
- Dimensions: 10.3″ H x 8.7″ W x 3.5″ D
- Weight: 0.97 lbs
- The zipper tabs have a loop suitable for attaching a small keychain
- Construction is also very sturdy
- There a small divider in the large section similar to what you’d find in a backpack made for laptops
- Plenty of space for a day trip
- Straps are not padded
8. Lily & Drew Nylon Casual Travel Mini Backpack
The Lily & Drew Nylon Casual Travel Mini Backpack is made with a durable stylish nylon exterior that will last for years. Thick canvas-like shoulder and carry straps are attached with extra stitching to carry heavy loads without worry. The soft interior lining adds a touch of luxury.
This mini-sized bag has multiple pockets, inside and out, and 2 external zippered pockets. This bag evenly distributes weight on both shoulders. Ideal for reducing back pain you have when you carry a normal purse. Other features include adjustable shoulder straps that fit everyone, padded back for comfort, padded bottom to protect your valuables. Our guide to the best travel purses offers more great products like this.
Key Features:
- Large selection of colors
- Durable stylish nylon exterior
- Soft interior lining
- Adjustable shoulder straps
Specifications:
- Brand: Lily & Drew
- Dimensions: 10″ H x 8″ W x 5″ D
- Weight: 0.83 lbs
- Has a handle on top for easy grab and go
- Has a pocket on the back and an extra pocket on the inside of the purse
- The back pocket is easy to quickly stash keys in or your phone
- Zippers feel strong
- The bags straps are made of a cotton webbing material and can rub against bare skin
9. Herschel Nova Mini Backpack
The Herschel Nova Mini Backpack is a popular, lightweight silhouette, sized-down for essentials-only days. Featuring slim shoulder straps and practical dual top carrying handles, this backpack makes a fun and modern staple for your day-to-day. Herschel’s Nova Mini Backpack was made for everyone. Your best friend for light day trips and urban adventures.
Made with durable polyester fabric, the Nova Mini Backpack is made to last through every adventure you take it on. A classic design with modern details, this style was born to be a wardrobe staple. Get easy access to your keys, phone, and other necessities with a convenient front zippered pocket. The Nova Mini also offers an internal storage sleeve to keep your daily essentials organized. Love Herschel? Check out our review of the best Herschel backpacks for our top picks.
Key Features:
- Polyethylene foam lining
- Slim shoulder straps
- Dual top carrying handles
- Front zippered pocket
Specifications:
- Brand: Herschel
- Dimensions: 14.17″ H x 9.84″ W x 4.72″ D
- Weight: 0.83 lbs
- The canvas material is very sturdy
- The inside seems well sewn
- The side pockets are handy
- The top unzips with two zippers
- Zippers are a bit stiff sometimes
10. Dora & Liz Mini Backpack
Dora & Liz Mini Backpack is a simple, chic, and feminine kind of mini purse, with the retro metal fittings and color on the leather backpack look low-key and luxurious, very different from other women backpacks. It also can be used as a casual backpack, shopping backpack, or traveling backpack, and it’s definitely a nice choice for you to show your elegant temperament.
It could carry a lot of little daily essentials. 1 large main compartment contains 2 interior open pockets and 1 interior zipper pocket for your iPad mini, mobile phone, make-up, wallet and notebook, 1 exterior side zipper pocket for ID card, 1 big front zipper pocket for mirror and comb, 1 small front zipper pocket for keys and headphones. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best backpack purses.
Key Features:
- 2 interior open pockets
- Low-key luxurious
- Waterproof faux leather
- Durable polyester lining
Specifications:
- Brand: Dora & Liz
- Dimensions: 9.84″ H x 9.05″ W x 5.12″ D
- Weight: 1.08 lbs
- The inside has a knotted drawstring for closing the opening to the main inner compartment
- Has lots of zippered areas of various sizes
- Has nice adjustable straps
- The material it’s made of also feels nice
- Has a bit of smell at first
Buying Guide
Durability
Durability is essential for any kind of bag, particularly for a mini backpack, because most of the weight is on the shoulders. You don’t want to wander the streets of Rome only to discover out your backpack has fallen down or that on the first day you enter your new school and lose the strings. Many durable mini backpacks are constructed with nylon or polyester and the denier is the indicator of its durability. The higher the denier, the more densely the fibers. It means that in materials with a high denier the intensity is increasing. The quality of threads and how tightly the seams are stitched together is another significant element in the durability.
Weight
The best mini backpack is usually meant to be light as the feathers. Unfortunately, that is not the case all the time, but you should find a lightweight backpack to continue with! Although backpacks are not weightless, you can go for bags made of lightweight materials. Opt for the lightest and strongest mini backpack that won’t bring any weight to your feet, while guarding against tears. A leather style bag is considered one of the finest carrying items. They are robust, lightweight and in every color provides a fantastic finish.
Straps
Your things can get heavy, even with a mini backpack. The weight can cause your shoulders to get very sore very quickly and your back can suffer. Choosing a mini backpack that will fairly spread the weight on your shoulder which does not irritate the skin is a must. Well-padded straps and wide straps will make all the difference between terrible and convenient travel. You’ll definitely have to move, run, and even hop on your shoulders with your mini backpack. Unless you decide to bring regular bulky objects such as bras and other school supplies, then opt with a small backpack with lined shoulder straps.
Dedicated Pockets
A mini backpack will usually have one wide main compartment and several zippered pockets. Your essentials can be large and small, some may not fit together and some may be sharp to damage your mini backpack. Thus the need for several zippered pockets exists and will hold different objects in position and does not enable them to come into touch with certain products. There are several things like chapstick, keys, and cell phones that normally go missing within the mini backpack’s depths. Here’s where a pocket outside comes in handy. If you’re planning to bring devices like your tablet, then you’ll also need an inner pocket that can fit those things.
Water Resistance
Another critical item one needs is a water-resistant exterior and internal material in a mini backpack. Chances are you’ll fly through the season with your backpack. That involves battling the rains as well and it can get messy. At the exterior, water-resistant content ensures that water does not get into your bag and damage your pieces. This is especially relevant if you intend to take your supplies to the tablet in the backpack. Any backpack is never 100%water proof, although it can definitely help deter drizzles and water leaks from coming into the interior.
Frequently Ask Questions
What can I fit in my mini backpack?
In addition to carrying your wallet and keys, there’s ample space to hold important snacks and accessories. Bring a lunch box, a lightweight jacket that can be converted into a compact form, and a new pair of socks if your feet get damp. If there’s a secured pocket inside the backpack and an emergency aid kit, you can even hold a camera.
What are mini backpacks used for?
Mini backpacks can be used for a range of activities including visiting a new area and traveling the mountains on a day trip. Since they seem to have a wide front pocket, the key bag, two shoulder straps and a grab handle, it is easy to stock mini backpacks with enough stuff to be used for yoga as well as for a beach holiday. Mini backpacks do not have many pockets or other unusual features relative to standard backpacks, meaning a week-long camping trip is certainly not an option, where a backpacking backpack for women might be more appropriate.
How do I clean my mini backpack?
If your mini backpack is made of leather, you can use a plain, drenched cloth to clean it off. An absorber of the charcoal odor or a dryer sheet with a good scent will help remove the unpleasant smell and make your mini backpack look great. You may have to allow your accessories to sit on the balcony or some other open space so that the air circulates well.
Conclusion
We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best mini backpacks as well as our guide on features to look for in a mini backpack. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.