Best Small Backpacks of 2025

Mary Hopper Avatar
Mary Hopper
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2025

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Small backpacks are a convenient and stylish option for those who prefer to travel light. With their compact size, they are perfect for carrying essential items such as a wallet, phone, keys and a water bottle. Whether you're heading to work, school or a weekend getaway, small backpacks offer comfort and practicality. They come in a variety of designs, from classic leather to trendy canvas, and can be worn on your back or over your shoulder. Small backpacks are a versatile accessory that can complement any outfit and make your daily routine more comfortable.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack Cover #TOP 1
G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack
ftb score rating icon 9.9
AOTIAN Mini 11.8 Inch Backpack Cover #TOP 2
AOTIAN Mini 11.8 Inch Backpack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L Cover #TOP 3
ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Small Backpacks

G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack

G4Free TN22B044A
Black
G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack Cover
G4Free 10L/15L Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Hiking Daypack Small Travel Outdoor Foldable Shoulder Bag

The G4Free 10L Hiking Backpack is a lightweight and foldable daypack perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, camping, and traveling. It is made with thickened water-resistant nylon material and high-quality SBS zipper, and features one main compartment, one front compartment, and two side pockets. Customers love its quality construction, comfortable straps, and waterproof material. The only downside is that the side pockets are too small for larger water bottles.

What We Like
Lightweight and packable
Durable construction and waterproof material
Spacious main pocket and inner pocket for secure storage
Wide and comfortable straps
Functional design for various outdoor activities and travel
#TOP 2

AOTIAN Mini 11.8 Inch Backpack

AO-015-Blue
Blue
Small
AOTIAN Mini 11.8 Inch Backpack Cover
AOTIAN Mini Lightweight 11.8 Inch Backpack Durable Travel Hiking Women and Girls Small Daypack, 7 Liters Blue

The AOTIAN Mini Backpack is a compact 11.8-inch bag designed for everyday use. Made from durable nylon and polyester, it ensures longevity even with frequent use. Its small size is perfect for carrying essentials without the bulk of a standard backpack. A standout feature is the secure zippered pocket located against your back, ideal for storing valuables like money and cards, keeping them safe from theft. With dimensions that fit a 10-inch tablet, this backpack is great for those who need a lightweight and reliable bag for casual outings.

What We Like
Durable materials
Compact and lightweight
Secure back pocket
Fits small items easily

ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L

SDJ-SG-TM0018
Black
Small
ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L Cover
ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L - Packable Small Backpacks Water Resistant Daypack for Women Men(Black)

ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L is a packable and portable backpack, perfect for traveling and hiking. It is only 0.5 pounds and can be folded into a compact pocket when not in use. With a capacity of 20L, it has a reasonable pocket distribution and is made of water-resistant and tear-resistant nylon material. The latest design effectively reduces shoulder pressure and has an anti-light strip for night walks. ZOMAKE has received praise from 500,000 satisfied customers worldwide.

What We Like
Ultra lightweight and packable
20L capacity with reasonable pocket distribution
Water-resistant and tear-resistant nylon material
#TOP 4

Banelu Small Sling Backpack

Banelu
slingbagblack
Black
One Size
Banelu Small Sling Backpack Cover
Small Sling Backpack Crossbody Sling Bag for Women, Chest Bag Daypack Fanny Pack Cross Body Bag for Outdoors Hiking Traveling - Black

The Banelu Sling Bag is designed for comfort and convenience, featuring durable, tear-resistant polyester that ensures long-lasting use. Its breathable mesh shoulder straps help alleviate pressure, making it ideal for extended wear during hikes or travels. You’ll appreciate the adjustable strap that fits most sizes, ranging from 22 to 43 inches, allowing you to wear it comfortably on your front or back. With dimensions of 11.2" x 6.1" x 3.2", this bag has multiple compartments to securely store your essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys, keeping everything organized and easily accessible.

What We Like
Durable, water-resistant material
Comfortable, adjustable straps
Multiple compartments for organization
Versatile for various activities
#TOP 5

THE NORTH FACE Mini Borealis Backpack

NF0A52SW
One Size
THE NORTH FACE Mini Borealis Backpack Cover
THE NORTH FACE 10L Mini Borealis Everyday Backpack, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size

The NORTH FACE Mini Backpack is a compact and stylish option for urban adventures. Its classic design features a front bungee system that allows you to secure extra gear easily. You’ll appreciate the padded top handle and user-friendly zippers, making it comfortable to carry. With an internal pocket for essentials like your jacket and keys, plus two external pockets for water bottles, staying organized is a breeze. This backpack is also made from sustainable materials, ensuring that you can explore without compromising your values.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight
Comfortable padded handle
Multiple organizational pockets
Sustainable materials used
#TOP 6

Phaoullzon Mini Backpack Purse

Phaoullzon
PBK0003DGR
Olive Green
Mini
Phaoullzon Mini Backpack Purse Cover
Phaoullzon Girls Mini Backpack Purse for Women Kids Canvas Small Casual Daypack Tiny Cute Travel Bag,Olive green

The Phaoullzon Mini Backpack is a stylish and practical choice for girls. Made from soft, water-resistant canvas, this backpack is designed to withstand daily use while remaining comfortable to carry. It features a spacious main compartment and several pockets, helping you keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. With its compact size of 10.5'' x 4'' x 9'', it’s lightweight and perfect for outings like travel, concerts, or shopping. Plus, it comes with a cute plush bear pendant that adds an extra touch of charm, making it an ideal gift for special occasions.

What We Like
Water-resistant and durable material
Multiple organizational pockets
Lightweight and compact design
Charming plush bear pendant
Great gift option

WATERFLY Lightweight Packable Backpack

ONJ01
A-teal Blue
WATERFLY Lightweight Packable Backpack Cover
WATERFLY Small Lightweight Packable Backpack: 20l Ultra Light Foldable Travel Hiking Camping Daypack Day Pack for Man Woman

The WATERFLY Packable Backpack is a versatile and convenient travel accessory. Weighing only 290g/10.2oz, this lightweight backpack is easy to carry and fold. With a 20L capacity, it provides ample space for all your essentials, making it suitable for various occasions such as travel, hiking, and camping. The backpack is made of recycled nylon, ensuring durability, and features a polyester lining and durable SBS zipper. Its compact design measures 432914 CM/16.911.45.5 IN when unfolded and 2216 CM/8.76.3 IN when folded. Stay organized on your adventures with this WATERFLY Packable Backpack.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to carry
20L capacity for ample storage
Durable construction with recycled nylon
#TOP 8

YZAOLL 20L Lightweight Hiking Backpack

A-20l-orange
Small
YZAOLL 20L Lightweight Hiking Backpack Cover
YZAOLL Small Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack, 20L Hiking Backpack Day Pack for Women Men Travel Camping Vacation,Orange

The YZAOLL Hiking Day Pack is a lightweight and compact backpack designed for your outdoor adventures. Made from durable, water-resistant nylon, it ensures your belongings stay dry. Weighing just 0.62 pounds, you can easily fold it down to a size smaller than a book, making it perfect for travel or storage. With a generous 20L capacity, it accommodates your essentials like laptops and books, while various pockets keep your valuables secure and accessible. The breathable mesh shoulder straps enhance comfort during long hikes, providing a convenient and enjoyable experience.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable
Durable water-resistant material
Multiple storage pockets
Comfortable adjustable straps
#TOP 9

AOTIAN Mini Nylon Women Backpacks

EU3973
Mini Deep Purple
Mini
AOTIAN Mini Nylon Women Backpacks Cover
AOTIAN Mini Nylon Women Backpacks Casual Lightweight Small Daypack for Girls

The AOTIAN Mini Backpack is a lightweight and durable daypack designed for women. Made with high-quality nylon on the outside and strong polyester lining, this backpack is built to last. It features a mini size but offers ample room to fit a 10-inch tablet, iPad, small umbrella, sunglasses, water bottle, makeups, snacks, and other daily essentials. The backpack is perfect for outdoor sports activities such as hiking, camping, climbing, running, cycling, and bike riding. It is also suitable for outings, travel vacations, and trips to the amusement park. The AOTIAN Mini Backpack is known for its environmental non-toxic materials, indelible color, breathability, and wear-resistance. With its compact size and versatile features, this backpack is a must-have for women on the go.

What We Like
Durable
Ample storage space
Lightweight
#TOP 10

JanSport SuperBreak Backpack

Superbreak Backpack
Black
One Size
JanSport SuperBreak Backpack Cover
JanSport SuperBreak One Backpacks - Durable, Lightweight Bookbag with 1 Main Compartment, Front Utility Pocket with Built-in Organizer - Premium Backpack, Black

Be ready for school with JanSport SuperBreak Backpack! Made with durable and water-repellant fabric, this backpack is ready for anything. It features one main compartment and a front utility pocket with a built-in organizer, making it easy to hold all your essentials. With a simple and classic silhouette, this backpack is available in over 30 different colors and prints, perfect for anyone's unique style. The backpack is reliable and ultra-lightweight, with padded shoulder straps for comfort and a web haul handle for convenience.

What We Like
Durable
Lightweight
Versatile
Simple design
Comfortable straps
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the small backpacks called?

Generally, rucksacks are smaller than regular backpacks specifically because of their design. Their capacity ranges from 15-30 liters, they often have several external pockets, and some even feature a laptop sleeve inside (like the one in the photo).

2. Are small backpacks still in style?

Mini-backpacks ruled the '90s, and now they're the latest trend to make a comeback. '90s favorite mini-backpacks are way more convenient than handbags since they're lighter, hands-free, and offer just enough space for your everyday essentials without weighing you down.

3. What size are mini backpacks?

Generally, small backpacks or mini backpacks have a capacity of 5L to 15L. That's approximately 10.75''L x 13.5''H x 5''D. Mini backpacks are one of our favorites because they're fun, functional, and have enough space to store just what you need.

Editor's Notes

During our small backpack research, we found 48 small backpack products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 368,994 customer reviews through our big data system to write the small backpacks list. We found that most customers choose small backpacks with an average price of $16.93.

The small backpacks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of small backpacks, including G4Free, AOTIAN, ZOMAKE, Banelu, THE NORTH FACE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,694 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Mary Hopper Avatar

Mary Hopper is an Italian fashion designer with 10 years of extensive working experience in the fashion industry. She can design clothing and fashion accessories, such as handbags, backpacks, shoes, and jewelry. She is also a professionally trained content writer specializing in managing various fashion and beauty blogs.