21 Backpacks Similar to Fjallraven
Fjallraven is a brand based out of Sweden that has grown in popularity amongst outdoor enthusiasts and city-dwellers alike. I’m sure you’ve seen their Kanken backpack. It’s everywhere.
This leads to an important question: Are there any good Fjallraven alternatives?
The answer is yes! There is a lot out there and even some of our favorite brands have a similar outdoorsy-style with an emphasis on daily functionality. This is why we have compiled this large list of backpacks and brands like Fjallraven that sport some of the same design, functionality and price (don’t worry we also peppered in some budget options).
This guide is divided into two parts
Video Review
Are there any good Kanken alternatives? We found 3 great options.
Backpacks Like Kanken
For anyone looking for a different or cheaper alternative to the popular Kanken backpack these picks might be up your alley. These backpacks are similar in size and style and we even included some cheaper options for anyone that is on a budget. This unique boxy backpack style is perfect for travel, school or work commutes.
Doughnut Macaroon
The Doughnut Macaroon is a crowd favorite thanks its fun design and endless color options. If you are looking for backpacks like the Fjallraven Kanken then you’ll love the Macaroon’s simple box profile and clamshell backpack style that allows full access to all of the contents inside the main compartment. What stands out about the Doughnut Macaroon is it’s interior organizer panel that gives you access to small items like pens, wallets and snacks without having to rummage through the main compartment.
Check out our Doughnut Macaroon review to learn more!
Got Bag Daypack
We highly recommend taking a closer look at Got Bag Daypack if you are looking for a backpack like the Kanken from a unique brand that values great design and environmental responsibility. Each Got Bag Daypack backpack is made from recycled ocean plastic and the company has made it a mission to sustainably produce each product from top to bottom.
Got Bag offers the Daypack in tons of fun colors so you are sure to find the perfect match!
HotStyle BESTIE Mini Backpack
HotStyle offers a cheaper Kanken alternative with their BESTIE Mini Travel backpack. What makes this aesthetic backpack special is its variety of pockets and fun color options. The front features an easy-access zip pocket and the inside is lined pockets for all of your essentials. If you are looking for backpacks like the Fjallraven Kanken but with a little more pocket storage then the HotStyle BESTIE Mini Backpack is a great choice.
Patagonia Atom Tote Pack
Patagonia’s Atom Tote Pack is great for anyone looking for backpacks similar to the Fjallraven Kanken with a compact profile. The 20-liter main compartment gives you plenty of room for essentials while internal organizer pockets and water resistant material will give you peace of mind on busy days. The Patagonia Atom Tote Pack also comes in a bunch of different colors so you are sure to find one you love.
For a closer look at the details check out our Patagonia Atom Tote Pack review.
Anello Clasp Backpack
Anello is a brand based out of Japan that offers the perfect Fjallraven Kanken alternative. Just like the Kanken, these unisex backpacks are available in a ton of colors and sizes. The bags themselves are top-loading with zipper access to a very large and roomy main compartment. These bags are a great option for anyone who needs a casual backpack to use at school, the gym or overnight travel.
Osprey Daylite Tote Pack
The Osprey Daylite Tote Pack is a versatile backpack that can be used for daily urban carry or during your next outdoor adventure thanks to its water resistant construction and laptop sleeve that can also be used as a hydration pocket during your next hike. Like the Fjallraven Kanken, the Osprey Daylite Tote Pack comes in a ton of different colors and can be carried like a tote or backpack depending on your preference.
Brands like Fjallraven
While we are all familiar with Fjallraven’s awesome bag designs - it doesn’t hurt to see what else is out there when shopping for a new backpack. There are a few brands like Fjallraven that offer outdoorsy designs and tough as nails construction. Below are a list of our favorite brands and some of our top picks.
Patagonia
We believe Patagonia is one of the best brands like Fjallraven in terms of backpack quality and outdoor-focused designs. Their wide range of outdoor and daily-use backpacks are out-rivaled by few and you can find just about any type of backpack to fit your needs. Patagonia is worth a closer look if you are looking for a hiking, travel or daily use backpack that is built to last.
Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack
The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack is a 27 liter bag that can be carried as a backpack, hand bag or tote. It’s designed to be ready for use at the weekend farmer’s market or as a travel daypack thanks to its pack-away design. The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack is a good alternative for those on the hunt for bags like the Fjallraven Totepack. We like its lightweight yet super strong fabric and zippered exterior pocket for quick access to essentials.
Patagonia Fieldsmith Lid Pack
Patagonia offers a modern take on a classic rucksack design with their Fieldsmith Lid Pack. This backpack features a water repellent finish for ease of mind during outdoor adventures and a large main compartment for easy storage of things like a laptop and daily essentials. At 28 liters the Patagonia Arbor Lid Pack is a good choice for anyone looking for heritage-style bags like the Fjallraven Greenland.
REI Co-op
REI Co-op is retailer known for quality outdoor gear and apparel offerings and the company has recently started offering their own branded items that match their focus on high quality and sustainability. Many of REI’s bags are made from eco-friendly and recycled materials and are built to specific standard for the task at hand: camping, hiking, travel and everyday carry. We recommend REI backpacks if you are looking for affordable brands like Fjallraven with a similar focus on sustainability and practicality.
REI Beyonder Pack
The REI Co-Op Beyonder Pack features everything you need to conquer the day. An interior padded laptop pocket allows you to carry your tech securely while a extra pockets give your organization for small items.
One thing we really appreciate about this backpack is its quality and minimalist design. Fans of Fjallraven’s classic designs will really appreciate the REI Beyonder’s minimalist exterior, intuitive pocket placement and eco-friendly construction.
REI Rucksack Recycled Daypack
The Rucksack Recycled Daypack is REI’s own take on a classic hiking bag but with more everyday carry features that also make it a perfect choice for school and commuting. Available in both a men’s version and women’s version, the Rucksack is built with comfort in mind for easy hauls on the trail and in the city.
The Rucksack Recycled Daypack’s rugged construction and minimalist exterior make it a great alternative for anyone looking for bags like Fjallraven that focus on a stylish design that doesn’t compromise on great quality.
Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi is a backpack brand that deserves to be on your radar if you are looking for high quality multifunctional backpacks. The brand’s business model is “Do Good” and that’s something we can definitely get behind. Cotopaxi gives a percentage of their profit to organizations that fight poverty around the world. Their backpacks are bright, fun and technical. Cotopaxi is a great option for anyone looking for brands like Fjallraven geared towards hiking and travel.
Cotopaxi Todo Convertible Tote
The Cotopaxi Todo Convertible Tote offers the best of both worlds: backpack and tote bag. Filled with useful pockets, you’ll get a padded sleeve for a 15" laptop and a fleece-lined pocket perfect for storing sunglasses or a phone. Those looking for a backpack similar is size to the Kanken but who don’t want to resort to Kanken dupes will love the original style and fun colors of the Todo Convertible Tote.
Cotopaxi Vaya Backpack
The Cotopaxi Vaya is a daypack for hikes and everyday carry. The 18-liter main compartment offers the room you need for daily essentials while a padded laptop sleeve gives you quick access to your tech. Pair these features with a highly water-resistant construction and a soft mesh back panel and you have a versatile pack for work and play.
Helly Hanson
Helly Hanson is a Norwegian brand that specializes in clothing and accessories for people who love staying active outdoors. Their backpacks can be best described as daily-use functionality with retro-inspired style by incorporating hard-wearing fabrics and leather trims. This a great brand to try out if you are looking for brands like Fjallraven with an emphasis on Scandinavian design.
Helly Hansen Vika Backpack
Inspired by minimalist Scandinavian design, the Vika Backpack will come in handy for daily carry and outdoor adventures alike thanks to its highly water resistant rolltop construction, roomy 28 liter main compartment, laptop sleeve and adjustable sternum strap so that you can dial line a perfect fit.
Helly Hansen Dublin Backpack
Made for short hikes and daily commuting alike, the Helly Hansen Dublin is a small daily carry backpack designed to thrive on even the busiest of days. Packed features such as water bottle pockets, external quick-access pockets and two separate main compartments - the Dublin is a great option for anyone looking for a backpack like the Fjallraven Kanken or Ulvo with a similar size and footprint.
Osprey Packs
Whether you are looking for technical hiking backpacks or everyday bags - Osprey Packs has you covered. The brand has made their mark in being a leader in travel and outdoor gear but they have also released some serious contenders in the laptop backpack space. Anyone looking for backpacks similar to Fjallraven’s more technical outdoor bags will like the options Osprey offers for hiking, backpacking, running and mountain biking.
Osprey Arcane Roll Top
The Arcane Roll Top is a versatile urban to trail backpack by Osprey that combines a city-focused carrying system with the brand’s classic focus on durability and comfort. This roll top backpack features a 16” laptop sleeve, a roomy 22 liter main compartment and a hidden low profile side water pocket that blends into the pack when not in use for a streamlined look.
Osprey Arcane Daypack
Don’t be fooled by the minimalist exterior - inside the Osprey Arcane is a myriad of pockets for organizing your daily items. Each Osprey Arcane is equipped with a padded laptop sleeve, plenty of pockets for essentials and is made with water resistant fabric for peace of mind during busy commutes.
Salkan
When it comes to finding companies like Fjallraven very few come close to the quality and designs that Fjallraven offers but Salkan does a stellar job on both fronts. Salkan is a brand that offers high quality backpacks built to last through any journey. In fact, each bag brings with it a lifetime guarantee!
Salkan The Daypack
The Daypack is a rugged 20L daypack perfect for lugging around your laptop, snacks and other essentials. The interior features a padded laptop sleeve and a zip organization pocket for smaller items while the outside provides a side zip pocket for keys and other quick access items.
Salkan The Mainpack
Salkan offers a thoughtfully designed trekking pack for those who like to wander off the beaten path. A good alternative to the Fjlaraven Abisko or Kaipak, the Mainpack’s carry versatility is made possible big 45L main compartment and compression straps that double as holders for oversized gear. Made with a wax-finished fabric for water resistance and equipped with aluminum hardware - the Mainpack is a step up from other travel and hiking packs in its class.
Topo Designs
Topo Designs is a great brand to check out for anyone looking for outdoor-inspired backpacks similar to Fjallraven with some really unique styles and colors. Most of their backpacks are simple yet hardwearing. Meaning, if you aren’t a fan of the bells and whistles of many modern packs and instead want to focus on quality construction and timeless style - then this brand is for you. Recently Topo has switched a lot of materials to recycled fabrics making them a great source for eco-friendly recycled backpacks.
Topo Designs is a great brand to check out for anyone looking for outdoor-inspired backpacks similar to Fjallraven with some really unique styles and colors.
Topo Daypack Tech
One of Topo Design’s most popular backpacks, the Daypack Tech is a workhorse that can be used for everything from daily commuting to short hikes. With a 21 liter capacity, super comfortable back panel and plenty of pockets, the Commuter is Daypack Tech is one of Topo’s most versatile backpack yet.
Topo Designs Rover Pack
The Topo Rover Pack offers a timeless style that is as versatile as you are. Plenty of compartments for small gear, a laptop sleeve and a 20 liter compartment makes it the perfect bag for anyone looking for a reliable backpack for daily carry. Also, the water bottle pockets on this bag are fantastic and can fit some pretty big bottles. The Rover is definitely one of our favorite backpacks with water bottle pockets.
Haglöfs
Haglöfs is a Finnish brand that offers eco-friendly gear and clothing for the outdoor adventurer. Those looking for outdoor backpacks like Fjallraven may miss the simplicity of their designs but we think Haglöfs does a great job at offering bags that have real functionality without being too over-engineered. Haglöf’s range of offerings is impressive with backpacks suited for the trail or your next downtown day trip.
Haglofs Nusnas Backpack
The Nusnas is a 25 liter rucksack that can be used on the trail or during your daily commute. This is thanks to its water resistant DWR coating and modern features like a laptop sleeve and key holder. The backpack features a sleek minimalist profile and is constructed of highly durable recycled fabric to really drive its modern Scandinavian design home.
Haglofs Siljan Backpack
Haglofs offers an attractive weather resistant daily pack with their Silja backpack. Made of durable recycled materials with chunky wear-resistant zippers, the Silja is constructed to thrive in any setting. This backpack is a good choice if you are looking for backpacks like the Fjallraven Kanken that are slim in design with a roomy main compartment.
Helpful Resources
Want to stick with a Fjallraven backpack? Use our helpful guides below to pick your perfect pack!
