Having a good-quality and sturdy backpack to carry our essentials for school, work, errands, or travel is a must.
We can fit so many things in it, making life on the go easier and more comfortable.
From carrying laptop to book to water bottle and many more, the right backpack can make all the difference.
However, many backpacks are made from unsustainable synthetic materials and are not made to last. They are cheap, mass-produced bags that harm our planet.
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly alternative and making a conscious decision to support brands that care about the environment, keep reading!
I’ve gathered 7 best eco-friendly backpacks that are thoughtfully designed and serve all your needs while being kind to the planet. These bags are made with care, using materials that are often recycled, organic, or sustainably sourced.
What to Look for in Sustainable Backpacks
When shopping for sustainable backpacks, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Sustainable Materials & Quality | Look for backpacks made from materials such as recycled polyester, recycled nylon, organic cotton, hemp, or upcycled fabrics. These not only cut down on waste but also minimize the environmental footprint of your purchase.
Your bag should be able to handle daily commutes and activities without wearing out quickly. It should be in tip-top shape for years to come. - Affordability | Although some eco backpacks can be pricey, many affordable options are available. I’ve made sure to include those options on the list.
- Brand Authenticity & Ethics | Pay attention to the brands’ commitment to sustainability. Do they prioritize fair labor practices? Are they transparent about their supply chain? Do they hold third-party certifications like B Corp, Climate-Neutral, or Fair Trade?
The Full List Of Sustainable Backpack Brands
- Terra Thread | Visit Store
- Shakti Warrior | Visit Store
- LaBante London | Visit Store
- GOT Bag | Visit Store
- (R)evolution | Visit Store
- Made Free | Visit Store
- Xact | Visit Store
1. Terra Thread
Best For | Everyday use and mini backpacks
Ethics | Fair trade production, GOTS certified organic materials, Certified B Corp, gives back, carbon-neutral, eco-friendly packaging
Designed in California and ethically handmade in fair trade factories in India, Terra Thread‘s affordable canvas backpacks are designed to be the perfect blend of style, durability, and eco-conscious design. With spacious design, pockets and compartments for water bottles, laptops, and more, they’re ideal for everything from traveling to running errands. Free of toxic dyes, lead, and harmful chemicals, they leave no carbon footprint behind. Additionally, through their partnership with Feeding America, every backpack purchased helps provide meals to children and families in need.
2. Shakti Warrior
Best For | Everyday use, eco-friendly fashion, and travel
Ethics | Made from eco-friendly sustainable premium cork, vegan materials, biodegradable, fair trade production
This cork vegan backpack by Shakti Warrior is made of high-quality sustainable cork fabric. It is lightweight, water-resistant, and perfect for daily use or travel. It has two spacious pockets and a secure zippered compartment, allowing you to organize everything better. This backpack can easily fit your laptop, charger, notebook, workout clothes, water bottle, keys, wallet, and other daily essentials.
3. LaBante London
Best For | Everyday use, professional use, and travel
Ethics | Vegan materials, ethical production, made from recycled materials, SEDEX certified
This sleek, modern backpack is made from high-quality recycled materials and is completely vegan. The outer of the bag is made with vegetable by-products and Polyurethane, while the interior is made from reclaimed plastic bottles. It is a stylish, gender-neutral laptop backpack, featuring a 15-inch laptop compartment. Designed for comfort, it includes padded, adjustable straps that sit effortlessly on your shoulders.
LaBante’s backpacks are produced in a safe ethical environment, factories where their bags are produced have SEDEX certification.
4. GOT Bag
Best For | Everyday use, travel, and outdoor adventures
Ethics | Made from 100% ocean plastic, fair trade, ethically sourced, carbon-neutral production, eco-friendly packaging
This backpack is made entirely of ocean plastic! It is designed for sustainability without compromising on style or function. Its rolltop design offers storage flexibility, making it suitable for various activities, whether you’re commuting, hiking, or traveling. Its water-resistant fabric ensures your valuables stay dry, while the adjustable sleeve offers extra storage for laptops up to 15 inches.
Each GOT BAG Daypack recycles 3.5 kgs of ocean-recovered plastic, supporting a sustainable circular economy to address the plastic problem at its root!
5. (R)evolution
Best For | Daily commuting, work, school, and weekend getaways
Ethics | Made from recycled materials, fair trade, ethically produced, carbon-neutral, eco-friendly packaging
The 15L Commuter Backpack combines functionality with sustainability, perfect for daily commuting or short trips. Crafted from recycled materials, this backpack not only reduces environmental impact but also ensures durability and style. With its thoughtful design, it offers ample space for your essentials, including a laptop, while supporting ethical production practices and reducing your carbon footprint.
6. Made Free
Best For | Daily use, travel, and minimalist packing
Ethics | Sustainable materials, fair trade, eco-friendly, gives back
The Roll Pack AW in Charcoal from DoneGood is designed for those who value both style and functionality. This versatile backpack is made with sustainability in mind, using eco-friendly materials and ethical production practices. Its minimalist design includes ample storage space, making it perfect for everyday use or travel. Plus, every purchase supports social and environmental causes, ensuring your choice has a positive impact.
7. Xact
Best For | Travel, outdoor adventures, and versatile packing
Ethics | Recycled materials, fair trade, eco-friendly, supports environmental initiatives
The Oxygen 45 Hybrid Duffel Backpack from DoneGood is perfect for those who need a reliable and adaptable bag for their travels and outdoor activities. This 45L duffel backpack is crafted from recycled materials, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint. Ethically produced with fair trade practices, it combines the durability of a duffel with the convenience of a backpack. Additionally, each purchase contributes to environmental initiatives, allowing you to travel sustainably and responsibly.
