Best Small Backpacks of 2026

Mary Hopper Avatar
Mary Hopper
Last Updated: Jan 29, 2026

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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

Travel Backpack with USB Port & Shoe Pouch Cover #TOP 1
Travel Backpack with USB Port & Shoe Pouch
ftb score rating icon 9.9
JanSport SuperBreak Backpack Cover #TOP 2
JanSport SuperBreak Backpack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
BAGSMART Mini Quilted Laptop Backpack Cover #TOP 3
BAGSMART Mini Quilted Laptop Backpack
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 9 Small Backpacks

Travel Backpack with USB Port & Shoe Pouch

100100PNK
Amourpink
Large
Travel Backpack with USB Port & Shoe Pouch Cover
Taygeer Travel Backpack for Women, Carry On Backpack with USB Charging Port & Shoe Pouch, TSA 15.6inch Laptop Mochila Flight Approved, Nurse Bag Casual Daypack for Weekender Business Hiking, Pink

This travel backpack for women has a USB charging port and built-in charging cable for your convenience, with 3 main compartments and 9 inner pockets for organized storage. It is flight-approved with a 180-degree zipper closure and can be used as a backpack, handbag, or duffle bag. This hybrid backpack is perfect for daily use, college, and travel, and is a great gift for daughters, women, and girls.

What We Like
Spacious compartments
Fits under airplane seat
Durable and lightweight
Affordable price
Multiple pockets and sections

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 material
Spacious main compartment
Comfortable straps
Waterproof protection
Easy to clean
#TOP 3

BAGSMART Mini Quilted Laptop Backpack

9.7 In-black
Mini-9.7 inch
BAGSMART Mini Quilted Laptop Backpack Cover
BAGSMART College Laptop Backpack, Travel Backpack for Women, Quilted Casual Daypack, Water-Resistant Bookbag, 9.7 In-black, Mini-9.7 inch

The BAGSMART Mini Backpack is a lightweight and compact choice perfect for carrying your everyday essentials like your wallet, phone, and cosmetics without feeling bulky. Its multiple compartments help you stay organized, giving you a dedicated spot for a 9.7-inch iPad and a secure back pocket that fits close to your body. This makes it easy to access your items quickly and keeps you efficient during your day. Plus, its versatile design suits many occasions, from casual outings and shopping to dates and daily commutes, so you can look stylish and be prepared no matter where you go.

What We Like
Lightweight and compact design
Multiple organized compartments
Versatile for many occasions
Comfortable adjustable straps

SHRRADOO Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack

983035
Black
X-Large (Pack of 1)
SHRRADOO Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack Cover
SHRRADOO Extra Large 50L Travel Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port, College High School Backpack Airline Approved Business Work Bag Fits 17 Inch Computer for Men Women

The SHRRADOO Extra Large 52L Travel Laptop Backpack is a versatile backpack with 20 independent pockets for large storage and organization for small items. It has three spacious main multi compartments with many hidden pockets that can accommodate lots of stuff. The backpack can be used as a durable large backpack, large school backpack, or spacious college backpack. It features an external USB port for convenient charging of cellphones and a hole for headphone outside. It is made of high-quality polyester fabric with nylon lining for better water resistance, and the shoulder straps are comfortable with a breathable mesh and sponge pad.

What We Like
Multiple compartments
High storage capacity
Durable construction
Laptop compatibility
Water resistant

THE NORTH FACE Borealis Backpack

NF0A52SE
One Size
THE NORTH FACE Borealis Backpack Cover
The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack - Water Repellent, 16" Laptop Sleeve, Large Main Compartment, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size

The NORTH FACE Borealis is an upgraded laptop backpack designed for organization and comfort. With its FlexVent suspension system, you can enjoy excellent support for your shoulders and back, making it perfect for all-day wear. The top handle and removable waist belt allow for easy handling and a customized fit, enhancing your carrying experience. Additionally, the backpack features multiple pockets, including a padded tablet sleeve and fleece-lined pocket, so you can keep your essentials organized and easily accessible, whether you’re commuting or traveling.

What We Like
Durable construction
Waterproof exterior
Comfortable padding
Organized pockets
Secure laptop sleeve
#TOP 6

Amazon Basics 17 inch Laptop Backpack

Amazon Basics
NC2401019R1
Black
Amazon Basics 17 inch Laptop Backpack Cover
Amazon Basics Travel Laptop Backpack for 17 in / 43.1 cm Laptop, Black

The Amazon Basics Laptop Backpack is designed to keep your gear organized and secure. It features large main compartments and various pockets, making it easy for you to store everything you need. The dedicated laptop compartment fits most 17-inch models and includes a Tech Spot sleeve for your tablet, ensuring your devices are protected. With additional zippered mesh pockets and pen holders, you can keep your smaller items neatly arranged. The breathable back panel and padded shoulder straps provide comfort during travel, while the adjustable chest strap ensures a snug fit, making your journey more enjoyable.

What We Like
High quality construction
Spacious with many pockets
Comfortable to carry
Great value for price
#TOP 7

Funko Loungefly Disney Kingdom Hearts Mini-Backpack

WDBK3041
Multicolor
Small
Funko Loungefly Disney Kingdom Hearts Mini-Backpack Cover
Loungefly Disney Kingdom Hearts Mickey Mini-Backpack, Amazon Exclusive

The Funko Loungefly Kingdom Hearts Backpack brings the magic of Disney's Kingdom Hearts to your everyday style. Crafted from vegan leather, this mini-backpack offers a durable and animal-friendly option for carrying your essentials. It features a front zipper pocket and side compartments, giving you easy access and extra space for organizing your items on the go. The adjustable straps let you customize the fit for comfort throughout your day. Plus, the detailed design showcases your favorite characters, making it a fun and functional accessory for fans.

What We Like
Vegan leather material
Front zipper compartment
Adjustable straps
Side pockets
Detailed Kingdom Hearts design

Naturally KIDS Unicorn Backpack

KBP1411A
03 Unicorn
Small
Naturally KIDS Unicorn Backpack Cover
Naturally KIDS Toddler Backpack w Unicorn Toys, 2 Year Old Girl Birthday Gift, 3 Year Old Girl Gift Boy, Toddler Unicorn Toy

Introducing the Naturally KIDS Unicorn Backpack, a delightful plush toy that doubles as a preschool toy for travel, play, and learning. This stuffed unicorn for girls comes with detachable plushies, making it an ideal companion for girls aged 2-5. The backpack features a compartment, zipper, and padded straps, perfect for carrying toys or snacks. Your child can take this cute unicorn on adventures, flights, or even for a nap, making it a versatile and lovable gift for any young girl.

What We Like
Adorable design
Soft plush toy
Perfect toddler size
Well made and durable
Removable stuffed animal

YOREPEK Large Backpack for Men

B071ZYHCM6
Black
17 inch
YOREPEK Large Backpack for Men Cover
YOREPEK Large Backpack for Men, Extra Large Laptop Backpacks for Men Women, Water Resistant Travel Backpack Airline Approved Business Work Bag with USB Charging Port Fits 17 Inch Computer, Black

The YOREPEK Travel Backpack is a great value for money, with a large capacity and numerous compartments for all your needs. It is water resistant and durable, with a comfortable padded back design and thick and soft multi-panel ventilated pads. It also features an external USB port with built-in charging cable and a TSA approved design for easy airport security. However, the bag is not rigid and the laptop pocket may not be secure enough for smaller laptops.

What We Like
Large capacity and organized
TSA approved and multipurpose
Practical and convenient
Durable material
Comfortable
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 9 quality products. We collected and analyzed 901,851 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 $36.12.

The small backpacks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of small backpacks, including Taygeer, JanSport, BAGSMART, SHRRADOO, The North Face. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 790 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.