21 Backpacks Similar to Fjallraven
Discover brands like Fjallraven and backpacks like Kanken with this list of alternatives. These backpack brands combine outdoor style with modern utility.
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!
11 Best High Visibility Backpacks for Commuting, Motorcycle and Jobsites
Safety first! Here are our favorite high visibility backpacks for commuting, motorcycle riding and jobsites.
High visibility backpacks are a safety staple for everything from motorcycle riding, commuter cycling and job sites. Hi vis backpack features such as bright colors, reflective striping and blinking lights can make all the difference between not being seen and staying safe.
Here we list some of the best high visibility backpacks available right now. These backpacks not only increase visibility but they also include must-have features like quality construction, thoughtful everyday carry design and proper fit for activities like commuting and motorcycle riding.
Best High Visibility Backpacks
Ortlieb Velocity High Visibility Daypack
Ortlieb offers a high visibility backpack for both commuters and daily carry with the Velocity High Visibility Daypack. This backpack is made out of reflective woven fabric that gives you full 360° visibility from every direction including the shoulder straps. Other great features include an ergonomic construction, padded laptop sleeve and a removable organizer for smaller items.
The Ortlieb Velocity High Visibility Daypack is available both a neon yellow or in a full black reflexing fabric for a more low-key look.
Mission Workshop Speedwell
The Mission Workshop Speedwell is an American made backpack centered around performance and comfort. The X-Pac textile construction provides a rugged yet lightweight exterior while the honey comb back panel and shoulder straps provide great airflow while keeping you comfortable in all conditions. Lightweight, weatherproof and packed with enough pockets to keep you organized - the Mission Workshop Speedwell might just be the high visibility backpack you’re looking for.
2W High Visibility Backpack
2W offers an affordable hi vis backpack that is packed with features. A great option for everything from job sites to commuting, the bag features a large expandable mesh storage compartment that allows you to carry everything from helmets to sports equipment. There is even a wet/dry storage compartment to keep dirty apparel separate from the rest of your stuff.
SealIne Urban Dry Daypack
Made with a completely waterproof construction, the Sealine Urban Dry Daypack is perfect for motorcycle riders and urban commuters who need a backpack to keep their item safe no matter how bad the weather gets. Sealine offers the Urban Dry Daypack in a variety of colors including in a bright hi vis yellow which adds to the other visibility features such as reflective accents and an attachment point for an additional bike light.
As a daily driver, the Urban includes a padded laptop sleeve, mesh zipper pocket with a key lanyard and a narrower overall profile for more compact carry.
Ortlieb Light Pack Two
Ultra lightweight and ultra visible, the Ortlieb Light Pack Two is a completely waterproof high visibility backpack that can be used for outdoor activities, commuting or even travel thanks to its compressible design.
A neat feature of the Ortlieb Light Pack Two is that the shoulder straps, chest strap and hip belt are all completely detachable to give you full control of your carry. The 25-liter main compartment is great for daytrips while the two side pockets give you quick access to a water bottle, sunglasses or snacks. When it comes to hi vis backpacks, the Light Pack Two is perfect for those who want a minimalist pack that keeps it simple.
Shugon Hi-Vis Backpack
If you are looking for a high visibility backpack on a budget, then the Shugon Hi-Vis Backpack is worth a closer look. This backpack includes a large main compartment with internal separators to keep you stuff organized. Plus the main compartment extends outward for easy storage of bulky items like a helmet, basketball or job equipment. Perfect for worksites and commuting alike, the Shugon Hi-Vis Backpack is available in super bright colors with reflective striping on all sides for added safety.
Icon Squad4 Hi Vis Backpack
The ICON Squad4 is a hi vis backpack made with motorcycle riders in mind. The backpack features a 23 liter capacity - which is perfect for daily carry without the added bulk of larger backpacks. The ICON Squad4 also provides an adjustable sternum strap and waist belt for added security and peace of mind when riding.
Along with being made of a hi vis yellow textile with reflective webbing, ICON includes a hi vis rain cover that turns into a helmet carrying system for hands-free carry when off your bike.
Ogio KTM No Drag Motorcycle Backpack
The Ogio No Drag is one of the best motorcycle backpacks on the market with some great riding features that are worth a closer look. The backpack features bright orange coloring along the body and shoulder straps for visibility and you can also purchase a high visibility waterproof rain cover for those gloomy riding days.
As a motorcycle backpack the Ogio No Drag has it all; a streamlined aerodynamic design, adjustable riding-specific shoulder straps and a roomy main compartment with tons of pockets and compartments for organized carry.
RIDERBAG Reflektor35 Hi Vis Backpack
The RIDERBAG Reflektor35 is a high visibility backpack that means business. Made with motorcycle riders and cyclists in mind, the Reflektor35 offers some neat features centered around safety and comfort such as large zipper pulls that are easy to use with gloves, an integrated emergency whistle and a helmet net that can be attached to the backpack as needed. When it comes to hi vis motorcycle or commuter backpacks few are this packed with features!
The RIDERBAG Reflektor35 backpack comes in a few hi vis colors or in jet black for a sleeker look. Each backpack has full reflective side and front panels for maximum visibility in low light.
Helly Hansen Loke Backpack
The Helly Hansen Loke Backpack is a bright hi vis backpack that is versatile enough for school, outdoor activities or commuting thanks to its light weight and durable construction that was made for life on the move. Not only does the Helly Hansen Loke feature bright colors that are sure to stand out but it also includes reflective printing for extra visibility in low light.
Black Diamond Magnum 16 Pack
Originally designed with hikes and peak bagging in mind, the Black Diamond Magnum 16 is also the perfect biking and commuting hi vis backpack for those who need a bright and visible bag for daily carry. Each Mangum 16 backpack features a slot for adding a bike light, a backpack panel designed to promote airflow and a removable hip belt. Made of hardwearing nylon ripstop and only weighing 1lb, the Black Diamond Magnum 16 is makes a great versatile backpack you can take just about anywhere.
What to look for in a high visibility backpack
Whether you are looking for a high visibility motorcycle backpack or a daily commuter backpack - all hi visibility backpacks share a few different features in common. Here is what to look out for.
Proviz REFLECT360 Backpack with reflective fabric
Reflective Materials
Reflective materials on hi vis backpacks span from reflective fabrics to special reflective prints. Many brands offer backpacks with reflective piping and printed logos for added visibility in low light while still maintaining a low key daily carry look during the day.
Other brands like Oterlieb and Proviz Sports offer backpacks made out of reflective fabric so that the entire backpack can illuminate in low light, creating a safer high visibility product that is perfect for bicyclists, urban commuters and school children alike.
Hi vis colors on a motorcycle rider
Hi Vis Colors
High visibility backpack colors can range from basic bright colors to more noticeable fluorescent colors such has hi-vis yellow, orange or pink. Although a true hi-vis backpack will prominently feature fluorescent colors, these colors may be overboard for a work commuter or college student only looking for a little bit of added safety during their commute.
Before purchasing a new backpack you must decide on how bright you need your backpack to be. Is this backpack needed to fulfill safety requirements on a jobsite? Then you may want to stick with a backpack made of hi vis fluorescent colors. Do you just need something bright and noticeable for hikes and biking? Then brightly colored fabrics may be the way to go.
Light Attachments
Another alternative to brightly colors hi visibility backpacks is to go with a backpack that can support light attachments. This allows you to have a low key backpack during the day and a safe way to commute in low light environment. Backpacks with light attachments are a great option for students, work commuters and cyclists who find themselves in low light environments often.
