23 Eco-Friendly Backpacks for Hiking, Travel and Everyday Life

We’re ready to go with our solar-powered outdoors gear and sustainably sourced clothing, but what about the backpack? The most important item on our kit list. It’s easy to forget that our backpacks can be eco-friendly too. Nowadays, you can find backpacks made from a wide range of sustainable materials such as organic cotton, hemp, or cork. There are also backpacks that are PFC free, and backpacks made from recycled bottles, vegan leather, or even upcycled materials.

As eco-conscious outdoors enthusiasts, we couldn’t resist putting together a list of the best eco-friendly backpacks of 2022. To make it even easier to choose the right eco-friendly backpack for you, we’ve divided our list into six categories.

• The most versatile eco-friendly backpacks
• The best eco-friendly backpacks for hiking
• The best water-resistant eco-friendly backpacks
• The best eco-friendly backpacks for travel
• The best eco-friendly daypacks
• Best eco-friendly backpack for kids

Whether you’re hiking into the mountains or just need a comfortable bag for your books and electronics, take a look at our top choice of sustainable backpacks.

The most versatile eco-friendly backpacks

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Stubble & Co Adventure Bag

Packed full of useful and highly practical features, The Adventure Bag by Stubble & Co is a top choice if you’re looking for an eco-friendly backpack that is mega versatile. The 42 litre capacity provides heaps of packing potential for gear heavy day adventures as well as lightweight multi-day trips on the road or abroad. This includes a clam-style main compartment that can be zipped fully open for easy and accessible packing.

Though it’s not designed for hiking, the soft structure of the pack – which handily compresses down for storage – and the cushioned back panel, shoulder straps and removable padded hip belt, provides excellent comfort should your adventures take you to the trail. The sealed seams and waterproof materials used also make it very well suited to outdoor use.

But this highly versatile backpack also slips rather nicely into commuter life. It boasts a laptop sleeve, haul handles, a trolley sleeve (for transporting on top of your pulley suitcase) and a strap cover for streamlined transportation.

And finally, at 1.8kg, it’s a relatively lightweight backpack for what it offers in terms of size and usage.

Other key features:

• Card pocket on shoulder strap
• Hidden zipped pocket
• Internal zipped pocket
• Adjustable shoulder, waist and chest straps
• Compression straps
• Bottle pocket
• Shoe compartment

Find the latest price at:
Stubble & Co

Jack Wolfskin Ecoloader 24 Pack

New to the eco-friendly backpack scene in 2020 is the Jack Wolfskin Ecoloader 24 Pack. This stylish daypack not only features an innovative (and highly useful) four-way zippered entry system, but it’s also the first backpack to use algae, also known as BLOOM, in the shoulder straps and back panel paddling. Instead of removing water from the ecosystem, the harvesting of algae ends up returning filtered water back into the system – 47 litres per pack! Additionally, the main fabric of the pack is made from recycled plastic bottles.

The Ecoloader is an excellent all-rounder daypack that is suitable for cycling, commuting, day-to-day use and hiking. It includes a rain cover, which is a real winner for outdoor activities. But it’s unique opening system, that gives you really easy access to everything in the pack, also makes it an excellent gym bag for climbers and fitness fans alike.

Other key features:

• Hydration sleeve
• Zippered side security pocket
• Removable rain cover
• Four-way zippered opening

Find the latest price at:
Jack Wolfskin | Amazon

Patagonia Black Hole Pack 25L

Fitted with everything you need to carry your everyday items but tough enough to use on a day hike, the 25 litre Black Hole Pack from Patagonia is one of the most versatile backpacks on our list. Inside you can find a 15” laptop sleeve and organiser pockets. Meanwhile, the exterior features two water bottle pockets and multiple attachment loops. The outer fabric is hard-wearing and highly weatherproof so your laptop, books, or packed lunch should stay dry on rainy days.

The Black Hole Pack is also fitted with a chest strap and comfortable air mesh back panel which allows for ventilation. In terms of sustainability, the combination of 100% recycled polyester ripstop and 100% recycled nylon makes this one of the most eco-friendly of the high performance backpacks on our list.

Other key features:

• Water-resistant
• Comfortable back system
• Spacious main compartment with 15” laptop sleeve

Find the latest price at:
REI | Patagonia

United By Blue 45L Range Daypack

Designed for both the city and the trail, the lightweight 45 litre Range Daypack from United by Blue is made from 100% recycled polyester and vegetable-tanned leather. The outer fabric is treated with DWR which repels moisture and is easy to clean.

The main compartment is secured with a top zipper and folding flap. This has internal pockets, but our favourite feature is the front access zipper. This allows you to access your gear from the bottom of the main compartment. We also like that the pack has plenty of external attachment points for a sleeping pad or other gear. Whether you’re using the Range Daypack on a hike or for commuting, the adjustable straps and hip belt help to spread the weight evenly. Additionally, on the back panel, there’s a secure zippered pocket which can hold a laptop of up to 17”.

Other key features:

• Water repellent
• Multiple zippered pockets
• External attachments
• Lifetime guarantee

Find the latest price at:
United By Blue

Millican Oli the Zip Pack 15L Backpack

A blend of practical features and a minimalistic design, the Millican Oli Zip Pack is as useful in the great outdoors as it is in the city. The main canvas fabric is 35% cotton and 65% recycled polyester with a water repellent finish. Perfect for drizzly hikes as well as rainy commutes to work. The padded shoulder straps also make it comfortable for extended periods of wear. There’s even a reinforced top handle so you can grab it as you head out the door.

Inside, the lining is made with 100% recycled polyester. There’s space for a laptop of up to 13”, organisation pockets, and an external zippered pocket. The Oli Zip Pack is also a smart choice for cyclists. The rear of the bag is equipped with a fold-away reflective strip and a space for a bike light.

Other key features:

• DWR treated
• 15-litre capacity
• 13” Laptop sleeve
• Available in two sizes and four colours

Find the latest price at:
Cotswold Outdoor | Millican

The best eco-friendly backpacks for hiking

Vaude Green Core Backpack

Vaude is a leading brand for sustainable outdoors gear but their Green Core Backpack is suitable for regular daily use as well as hiking, cycling, and mountaineering. The bag is fitted with a padded back panel, adjustable shoulder straps, and removable hip and chest straps. The interior offers a 30-litre capacity which can extend to 40 litres using the roll-top system. The large main compartment is easily accessible via a two-way zip, while the zippered front pockets with internal organisers provide a space for keys and wallets.

This model is part of the Green Shape range and its main materials are organic cotton, castor oil-based plastic, and milk-based felt. The fabric has a water repellent finish and Vaude even provide a removable drybag for those extra wet and rainy days. When it comes to eco-friendly and fair-trade products, the Green Core Backpack is one of the most sustainable on the market. The only drawback is its high price tag, but one we think is worth every penny.

Other key features:

• Expandable capacity
• Water repellent finish
• Ergonomic and adjustable design

Find the latest price at:
Vaude

EcoGear Water Dog 2L Hydration Backpack

Fast and light hikers and bikers who like to get the miles in on single day trips often only need a backpack to carry water and a few essentials. The EcoGear Water Dog is an ideal option as it comes with a 2-litre water bladder and a built-in insulated pouch. This keeps your drinking water cool on hot hikes. The Water Dog also provides two external zippered pockets for your hiking essentials. The backpack itself is lightweight and made from water-resistant REPREVE fabric. It features a breathable back panel and adjustable hip, chest, and shoulder straps.

Other key features:

• Comes with a 2-litre bladder bag
• Ventilated back system
• Water-resistant

Find the latest price at:
Eco Gear | Amazon

EcoGear Pinnacle 60L Hiking Backpack

If you’re looking for eco-friendly hiking backpacks for multiple day hikes then the Pinnacle 60L from EcoGear is our top choice. Made from recycled water bottles, this eco-friendly backpack has a classic top-loading design and is the largest pack on our list. It’s divided into two compartments; a large upper compartment and zippered sleeping bag compartment.

The Pinnacle 60L features an Air-flow back system, comfortable hip and back padding, and fully adjustable straps. There are also two zippered hip pockets for your camera and GPS, as well as tent straps and water bottle pockets.

Other key features:

• Ventilated back system
• Classic top-loading design
• Built with external pockets and attachments

Find the latest price at:
Eco Gear

The best water-resistant eco-friendly backpacks

Got Bag Roll Top

Not only is the Got Bag Roll Top an excellent water-resistant option, it’s also one of the most stylish eco-friendly backpacks out there. With a choice of 13 gorgeous hues to choose from and with a sleek, simple and functional design, the Roll Top seamlessly bridges the gap between everyday use and for fun-filled adventures.

Its capacious main compartment can be filled with up to 31 litres of stuff and boasts an internal padded laptop sleeve as well as 2 internal zippered pockets. It’s also comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded, with an appropriately female-friendly adjustable sternum strap.

But to top it all off, the PVC- and PFC-free recycled fabric is fully waterproof adding a huge degree of versatility to this already highly functional backpack.

Other key features:

• External zippered pocket
• Large internal zippered pocket with organiser pockets
• Small internal zippered pocket
• Padded shoulder straps and back panel
• Adjustable sternum strap
• Roll top with buckle closure
• Internal padded laptop sleeve

Find the latest price at:
Got Bag

Alchemy Goods Brooklyn Backpack

Made from upcycled inner tubes, nylon, and foam, the Brooklyn Backpack from Alchemy Goods has a rugged appearance and a highly water-resistant exterior. On the outside, there are two zippered pockets with protective flaps while the main compartment is fitted with internal organisation pockets. Despite its rugged appearance the Brooklyn Backpack is best for city use and bike commuters. The backpack is available in four colours and the main compartment can hold a laptop of up to 11” x 2” x 14”.

Other key features:

• Water-resistant
• 16-litre capacity
• Comfortable shoulder straps
• Limited Lifetime Warranty

Find the latest price at:
Alchemy Goods | Amazon

Mafia Deep Blue Bag

The Deep Blue Bag from Mafia is designed with water sports in mind. The bag is fitted with waterproof zippers and a water-resistant pocket for storing your wet sports gear. There are hanging loops for easy drying and a unique bottle holder made from upcycled dry suits. In fact, the entire backpack is made from upcycled materials including water sports clothing, sails, and climbing ropes. Another useful feature is the secret internal pocket for valuables.

Other key features:

• Separate waterproof pocket
• Waterproof zippers
• Stylish design

Find the latest price at:
Mafia Bags

Truce Designs Dacron Sailcloth Drop Liner Backpack

Another eco-friendly backpack made with recovered water sports gear is the Dacron Sailcloth Drop Liner Backpack from Truce Designs. The outer panels are cut from recycled sailcloth while the interior liner, available in three vibrant colours, is made with scraps from a diving suit factory. This backpack is waterproof (though not submersible) and available in three sizes — ideal for cycling, camping, and general outdoor use in wet conditions. Plus there are two external zippered pockets for small items while, on the inside, there is space for a laptop.

You can’t beat upcycling when it comes to minimising environmental impact right through the production process of new items. So, together with the Mafia and Alchemy Goods options, this Truce Designs backpack is the most eco-friendly backpack on our list.

Other key features:

• Waterproof
• Fitted with external pockets
• Available in three sizes and colours

Find the latest price at:
Truce Designs

The best eco-friendly backpacks for travel

tentree Mobius 35l Backpack

The Mobius Backpack from tentree features a multi-litre system which allows the bag to be adjusted from 16 litres to 35 litres. It’s ideal for weekend trips as well as shorter adventures. The interior features multiple sleeves and zippered pockets for organising your kit. There’s also a built-in 15” laptop sleeve. For easy packing and quick access, the Mobius Backpack is constructed with a clamshell opening, 4-way zipper, and hidden back opening. This backpack is ethically produced in Vietnam and the main material is made from recycled polyester and algae-based foam.

Other key features:

• Multiple pockets and zippers
• Expandable capacity
• Available in four colours

Find the latest price at:
tentree

ChicoBag Travel Pack rePETe Poseidon

Need a compact backpack to tuck into your travel kit? The ChicoBag Travel Pack rePETe Poseidon folds away into its front pocket and weighs just 7.2 oz. Despite its compact pack size, this backpack offers a 15-litre capacity. It’s made from a durable and recycled fabric which is machine washable and lightweight. The backpack is also hydration pack ready and features breathable shoulder straps. This makes it suitable for day hikes and sports as well as sightseeing and city use.

Other key features:

• Lightweight and compact
• Hydration pack ready
• 15-litre capacity
• One-year warranty

Find the latest price at:
Chico Bag | Amazon

The best eco-friendly daypacks

Bagmaya Dakhla Backpack

The sustainable and ethical Dakhla backpack has been handmade with natural hemp in Nepal by people from disadvantaged communities. With 25L capacity, it is the perfect companion for day-to-day and weekend trips. This eco-friendly backpack has been designed to last, without compromising comfort and a stylish, timeless design. It has several “secret” pockets inside and outside, plus a padded compartment for laptops up to 17”! If that’s not convincing enough, the guys at Bagmaya plant a tree with every order, employ carbon-neutral servers for their website and only use plastic-free packaging that is 100% recyclable.

Other key features:

• Internal 17″ laptop sleeve
• Lots of pockets
• Padded shoulder straps
• 25 litre capacity

Find the latest price at:
Bagmaya

Nixon Hauler 25L Backpack

With a 25-litre capacity, the Nixon Hauler is large enough for day hikes and overnight travels but small enough to use around town. A key feature is its bucket-like design with a 270o zippered opening. This gives you a backpack with the convenient accessibility of a suitcase. Inside the main compartment, you have plenty of organisation pockets. Plus, the inner lining is durable polyester made from recycled ocean plastics.

On the outside, there’s also side access to a padded laptop compartment, zippered top and side pockets, a water bottle pocket, and a removable headphone-sized pocket on the shoulder strap. This urban and outdoors backpack even has adjustable buckled straps for attaching a skateboard!

Other key features:

• External access to laptop compartment (up to 15”)
• Skateboard attachment straps
• Easy access to the main compartment
• Comfortable backpack straps

Find the latest price at:
Nixon

Solo NY Re:Claim Backpack

Based in New York, Solo NY offers a collection of eco-friendly bags made from recycled plastic bottles. The Re:Claim Backpack is part of this collection. The main fabric is recycled polyester which, for each backpack, keeps six PET bottles out of landfill. Along with the outer material, the stuffing, strings, and tags are made from biodegradable and recycled materials.

This low-key backpack is best for urban adventurers. It features a padded sleeve that will fit a laptop up to 15.6 inches and a wide-opening zipper so you can get things in and out with ease. On the front, you have two zippered pockets as well as internal pockets for organising your pens and papers. One of our favourite features is the padded duffle bag style handles that give you an alternative way of carrying the backpack. That’s extra convenient when you’re on crowded public transport or checking-in at the airport.

Other key features:

• Padded laptop compartment (11”-15.6”)
• Multiple carry options (backpack straps, duffle straps, and suitcase loop)
• Outside attachment for a light jacket or umbrella

Find the latest price at:
Solo NY

Terra Thread Earth Backpack

Terra Thread offers a perfect eco-friendly backpack for school, work, weekend getaways, and everyday use. Made with heavy-duty 14 oz organic cotton canvas, these backpacks are made to last. The backpack features a laptop compartment that can fit 13-15 inches laptop. You will also find an inside pocket for small items. The backpack has a minimalist look with an outside pocket large enough to fit your iPad and even small notebooks and two side pockets for water bottles. All Terra Thread backpacks are sustainably made using Fairtrade organic cotton and are ethically manufactured at a Fair Trade Certified Factory. The accessories, including zippers and fasteners, are lead-free. Plus, every purchase of the backpack contributes 20 meals to Feeding America, for those in need. Terra Thread’s Earth Backpack has a capacity of 16L. They also offer mini backpacks in smaller sizes (9L).

Other key features:

• Available in 8 colours
• Laptop compartment for 13-15 inches laptop, documents and textbooks
• Large front pocket with zipper
• Inside hanging pocket
• Two side pockets for water bottles
• YKK lead-free antique finish metal zippers

Find the latest price at:
Terra Thread

Jack Wolfskin Croxley Daypack

if you’re looking for a super stylish eco-friendly backpack then you’ll love the classic design of the Croxley Laptop Backpack from Jack Wolfskin. Its main fabric has a cotton-like appearance but is actually made 100% PET recycled bottles. The reinforced based is made from synthetic leather to give a suede-like feel and appearnace, and the front organiser pocket contains small pockets and pouches to keep everything nicely in order. For comfortable wear, the Croxley is fitted with narrow and adjustable straps. That, together with a 24-litre capacity, make it suitable for a day in the city or a weekend away. Plus, the Croxley has 15” internal laptop sleeve and two side pockets for carrying your water bottle.

Other key features:

• 15” Laptop sleeve
• 24-litre capacity
• Good storage options

Find the latest price at:
Jack Wolfskin | Amazon | Cotswold Outdoor

Fjallraven Re-Kanken Backpack

Fitted with adjustable backpack straps and top carry handles, the Re-Kanken is the perfect grab-and-go backpack. Based on the ever popular Kanken Backpack, this eco-friendly version is an excellent choice for carry-on luggage or for regular public transport users. The spacious main compartment with large zippered opening makes it super easy to pack and unpack. There’s also two side pockets and a zippered front pocket for storing smaller items. Plus, its square shape helps the bag to stand upright when placed on the ground. Another nifty feature is the seat pad which provides extra back padding whilst walking and a little extra comfort to sit on during picnics, at festivals or when resting on a hike.

Although the Re-Kanken isn’t as subtle on the colour-front as the Earlham, we like that Fjallraven use water and energy-efficient Spindye technology to produce the Re-Kanken in a wide range of colours. Additionally, the main fabric is produced from recycled plastic bottles.

Other key features:

• 16-litre capacity
• Large opening
• Two-way carry system
• Comes with a removable seat pad

Find the latest price at:
Fjallraven | Amazon

Parkland Academy Backpack

The Academy Backpack from Parkland is your classic back-to-school/work style backpack. Its 28-litre capacity with built-in 15” laptop sleeve and internal organiser pockets provide plenty of space for your everyday essentials. The external zippered pockets for keys and mobile, coupled with a water bottle pocket, balance security with accessibility.

The outer fabric is made from 100% recycled polyester and vegan leather details. Although we generally rate practicality over style, we do like that the Parkland Academy Backpack comes in a wide range of colours and patterns.

Other key features:

• 28-litre capacity
• Built-in 15” laptop sleeve
• Multiple internal and external pockets
• Limited Lifetime Warranty

Find the latest price at:
Parkland | Amazon

Rawganique Connecticut Deluxe Hemp Backpack

The Connecticut Deluxe Hemp Backpack from Rawganique is a durable organic backpack for day to day use. It’s divided into two compartments: a spacious main compartment measuring 17” x 11” x 6” and a smaller zippered pocket measuring 9” x 8” x 2”. There’s also an internal zippered pocket for securing your valuables, and a luggage strap so you can fix it to a suitcase. This handmade vegan backpack has a simple yet attractive design which is available in two colours.

Other key features:

• Large main compartment
• Can attach to a suitcase
• Vegan-friendly

Find the latest price at:
Rawganique

Best eco-friendly backpack for kids

Kathmandu Hobbit Pack

The Hobbit Pack from Kathmandu is designed for children aged between eight and ten, and packed full of adventure gear is a great way to encourage green habits at a young age. Its main material is constructed from recycled polyester which is REPREVE approved. The backpack has a 24-litre capacity and everything kids need on their first hike, including a kids-specific harness and adjustable straps. It’s also hydration pack compatible and built with external water bottle pockets. Another feature we like is the swivel hooks which allow the pack to be connected to a parent’s backpack.

Other key features:

• Uses kids-FIT technology
• Hydration pack ready
• Fitted with useful features

Find the latest price at:
Kathmandu

With such a high quality and varied selection of eco-friendly backpacks on the market there really is no excuse but to go green when your old bag has come to the end of its life. But until then, be sure to try repairing what you already have before recycling or donating it. Read more about that in our guide to recycling outdoor gear.

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