7 Sustainable Backpacks (to Show Some Love to Your Spine)
Beware of the effects of long-term tote shoulder!
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We love a tote bag. They hold all our silly little knick-knacks. They keep our library copy of Braiding Sweetgrass safe. They make space for the random things we collect on our hot girl walks. But as much as we hate to admit it, we’re getting old. We’re waking up with aching backs and sore shoulders. We’re routinely surprised by our horrific posture, and we have to do better. I know what you’re thinking, but tote bags are so CUTE and also the perfect addition to any outfit. Yes, we KNOW. We’re in mourning too. But that’s why we are sharing with you our favorite backpacks that are not only super cute accessories but also oh-so susty. Now, you can wake up feeling balanced, sit up straighter, and look a little sustier at the same time. Doesn’t mean you have to throw out that tote bag, but consider retiring it to the closet every once in a while (it’s about duality, babes).
What is it? Baboon to the Moon designs sustainable and long-lasting bags designed for travel, but their mini bags are smaller than their classic size, making them ideal for a day at work or on campus.
Who’s it for? For the baddies who are planning their next runaway to the woods moment, this Go Bag is built for all your serendipitous adventures and will take you from the office to the train station.
What is it? Topo Designs backpacks are versatile, geometrically inspired, and overall a timeless choice. They make backpacks from recycled and organic materials.
Who’s it for? For the granola baddies who love an earth-tone moment and somehow slayed in their high school calculus class.
3. Baggu:
What is it? We all know Baggu, but sometimes we forget that they make amazing backpacks using recycled nylon and featuring many of the same patterns and colors we love.
Who’s it for? For the baddies who lose their keys, their AirPods, and their tiny book of poetry all in one sitting. You’re gonna need these pockets.
What is it? Cotopaxi’s Del Dia collection features a range of bags in their signature color-blocked look. Each one is designed using leftover fabric from their headquarters.
Who’s it for? The main-character baddies who would like to maintain their one-of-a-kind status. There are truly no other bags like these.
What is it? Timbuk2’s laptop bag, made from recycled nylon and polyester, is the perfect size to slide your trusty computer but is sleek enough to style effortlessly with any outfit.
Who’s it for? For the baddies who stay posted up at the coffee shop in their blue light glasses until closing time. (Writing fanfiction, your personal memoir, or playing around on Canva is encouraged.)
What is it? Their mini bags, made from recycled materials, are small enough to replace your everyday tote bag. It might not be big enough to pack for a weekend away, but absolutely ideal to carry your essentials, including those over-the-ear headphones and your latest sketchbook.
Who’s it for? For the baddies who would like to disappear into the world just for an afternoon. The park is waiting for you.
What is it? O My Bag designs sustainably sourced leather and eco-friendly canvas to create long-lasting bags. Their bags are stylistically similar to purses, making them a very classy replacement for your everyday bag.
Who’s it for? For the baddies who are trying to find a perfect intersection between briefcase, purse, and backpack that leaves them feeling far more put together.
8. The one you already have <3:
We love our susty brands, but as any baddie knows, the best option is usually the one right in front of us. Make sure to double-check your closet or under your bed to see if any cutie vintage bags are collecting dust.
9. Don’t forget the thrift !!
You can always find some fun and funky bags at the thrift store, so be sure to hit up your favorite spot before you hone in on that new bag. There might be a vintage Vera Bradley or a lightly-used FjällRäven just waiting to be re-homed!