11 Small Backpacks With Just Enough Room for the Essentials

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If there is one thing every traveler needs, it’s a backpack. Whether you’re toting it through the airport or using it as your day bag in a new city, it’s the ideal companion for a hands-free day. The perfect backpack is comfortable, lightweight, and practical, yet doesn’t compromise style. Mini backpacks are particularly trendy at the moment, because in today’s fast-paced world, carrying around less means the opportunity to do more.

There are all kinds of small backpacks that appeal to various style aesthetics — whether you’re looking for a sportier, more functional style you can take from city streets to nature trails or a more classic silhouette that lends itself to casual and dressy outfits. Then, there’s also the fashion backpack that functions as a key ingredient to your travel look. Some backpacks can even be worn multiple ways so you get a bag that’s 2-in-1.

No matter your style, we’ve rounded up the best small backpacks to travel with.

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Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.

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Dagne Dover Small Dakota Backpack

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

This neoprene backpack by Dagne Dover is soft and lightweight making it a comfortable option for long travel days. While it may be small, it's got plenty of organizational features: an airmesh tablet sleeve, two interior pockets, two zipper exterior pockets, and the brand's signature key leash.

To buy: dagnedover.com, $135

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Madewell Mini Lorimer Backpack

Courtesy of Madewell

The distressed leather of this cognac mini backpack by Madewell gives it a distinctively vintage look. It's also available in black and a deep cabernet red.

To buy: shopbop.com, $158

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Herschel Supply Co. Mini Nova Backpack

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Herschel's classic style in nine colors, minimized.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $50

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State Ash Backpack

Courtesy of State Bags

This chic, bucket-style backpack can really go anywhere with you — from a beachside concert to the bar and back to the office on Monday. Plus, proceeds from the bag's sales are donated to Time's Up, an organization that supports safe, fair, and dignified working conditions for women.

To buy: statebags.com, $275

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Longchamp Le Pliage Backpack

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Always a crowd-favorite, Longchamp’s nylon backpack is durable and water-resistant. The best part? When you’re done using it, you can fold it up and store it in your suitcase.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $125

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Away The Daypack

Courtesy of Away

Behind the facade of its sleek and minimal design, Away’s daypack is the perfect companion for a traveler. Not only does it blend seamlessly into your travel outfit, the functionality hits the sweet spot, with interior organization pockets and a sling that slides over your suitcase handle.

To buy: awaytravel.com, $175

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Proenza Schouler Leather Backpack

Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

The ultimate fashion girl will love Proenza Schouler’s sleek and minimal backpack. It features a silver top handle and unzips to a suede panel that expands for a spacious interior. You can wear it across your back or over your shoulder.

To buy: net-a-porter.com, $1,495

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Tumi Voyageur Witney Backpack

Courtesy of Shopbop

For the classic traveler who’s looking for a sized-down version of their favorite backpack, Tumi’s Voyageur Witney Backpack has everything you’ll need.

To buy: shopbop.com, $295

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Mansur Gavriel Mini Backpack

Courtesy of Farfetch

No one does a sleek leather bag quite like cult-favorite brand Mansur Gavriel. If you want a backpack silhouette without sacrificing style, Mansur Gavriel’s mini leather flap-top bag is your ticket.

To buy: farfetch.com, $675

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Gucci GG Marmont 2.0 Matelassé Leather Mini Backpack

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Gucci’s take on the mini backpack is a fashionably comfortable option for a long day exploring a new city.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $1,980

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Smythson Panama Small Backpack

Courtesy of Smythson

Elegant, simple, and no-frills, this Smythson bag is the most classic option if you want functionality with a touch of luxe.

To buy: smythson.com, $1,195

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11 Stylish Mini Backpacks With Just Enough Room for the Essentials