Where To Buy Recycled & Sustainable Backpacks

I’m embarrassed to say how long ago I started drafting this post, but when I initially gathered links for sustainable backpacks, I was so uninspired that I clicked out and didn’t revisit it for… well, too long. Now that I’m desperate for a new backpack myself (my current is old, dingy, and too small), I jumped back on the search. And I was super pleased because while the last few years have supplied no shortage of recycled backpacks, for a while it was only outdoor gear in drab colors. It seems there are finally enough options that are not only eco-friendly but actually good looking enough and functional for everyday life beyond hiking.

More options than you thought, right?

If you’re an adult who wears a backpack (thanks to co-working and remote jobs I am no longer one of the few!), you probably have very specific purposes that it’s for. For me, it needs to hold my 15″ Macbook, be at least mostly waterproof (because, Seattle), and comfortable enough that I can walk a moderate distance without back pain. That last one usually rules out anything cute, because that means thick straps and support (kind of like my bras, ha). I’m also small, so ideally it doesn’t swallow me up. Other backpack wearers have different priorities: layered pockets for small gadgets or supplies, enough space for baby or kids’ needs or snacks, a professional enough look for the office, etc. No matter which you are, you’re in luck: I believe I have finally found more than enough options for all of the above!

Where to buy recycled and sustainable backpacks

Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi is a pioneer in the world of sustainable backpacks and outdoor gear, and they remain committed to eco-friendly practices. Most of their bags are a little too outdoor for my needs, but I may have found my favorite backpack in their Todo 22L Convertible Tote. It’s a backpack and a tote bag at once, and the versatility could be great for walking to cafes and co-working spaces with my laptop–a tote for small trips, and a backpack for a longer commute. While I’ll always LOVE color, I’m liking the idea of a neutral to wear with any outfit. But if you want a fun pop, Cotopaxi is still the place to get something colorful and unique–all super durable and all made from 100% recycled fabrics. I mean, just look at this backpack for a preview of their massive color options!

Plus, The Cotopaxi Foundation provides grants to nonprofits that help communities around the world facing extreme poverty.

Lefrik

Founded in Madrid in 2012, Lefrik makes the ideal everyday backpacks using lightweight materials made from plastic bottles. They offer a variety of clean, functional designs, and many ship free (orders over $75). A selection of designs are also available at Nordstrom including their puffy bags and other accessories.

Got Bag

I learned about Got Bag when searching for a sustainable fanny pack years ago, and they’ve since expanded their offerings to really cool travel bags and backpacks. Materials used in their products come from ocean waste like plastic and nylon fishing nets. They offer a transparent supply chain, have their own environmental care fund, and clean-up efforts in Java, Indonesia. Backpacks, bum bags, shoulder bags, duffels, and totes are all available in fun colorways and unique prints.

Their backpacks are super thoughtfully designed with the kind of details you don’t think about until you need them: a sneaky lower back pocket for easy phone access, a strap to secure your backpack to your luggage handle, ergonomic shoulder straps.

Kind Bag London

Kind Bag London has a US warehouse for easy shipping (free over $95) so it’s easy to shop anything from backpacks and lunch packs to weekender totes and reusable shopping bags, all made from recycled plastic bottles. No virgin plastics are used, and even accents like zippers and labeled are recycled too. I love all of the candy colors their Hackeney Mini Backpack comes in, and while I’d need the larger version to house my laptop, the mini is perfect for an afternoon adventure with necessities and snacks.

Herschel Supply Co

It may seem like Hershel’s moment has passed, but this once super trendy brand is now timeless thanks to their simple, clean designs an ongoing commitment to making bags from 100% recycled polyester. Their classic backpack comes in several sizes up to 30L and tons of colors (especially unique neutrals and fall shades). You’ll find the best variety on their website, but if you’re on a budget, I suggest searching for them on sites like Nordstrom Rack for a deal.

Made Free

Made Free‘s backpacks are ethically handmade by artisans in India with a mission to combat human trafficking. Backpacks are made from recycled plastic bottles (with some accents from “quality eco-friendly, vegetable-tanned, biodegradable leather”). Tote bags and travel accessories are offered as well. The US-based social enterprise is World Fair Trade Certified.

MAIKA

Sustainable accessories brand Maika Goods‘ line of bags includes laptop backpacks in their signature playful prints. They’re made of sturdy recycled canvas with a padded compartment fitting up to a 15″ laptop. Maika offers a huge variety of functional bags from tiny pouches to oversized totes.

Shop More Recycled Backpacks:

Many sustainable textiles can come in a variety of fabrics or materials, but when it comes to eco backpacks, you’re most likely looking at one thing: recycled polyester. Why? For one, besides leather, most backpacks are made from polyester already. It’s durable, lightweight, and can be water resistant. But considering that ALL plastic ever used on our planet is still around in some capacity, nothing gives me the ick like a product made with virgin polyester. Whether it’s recycling polyester or turning water bottles into textiles, there are enough ways to make backpacks in a sustainable way, and yet brands are still pumping them out. So anyone I see utilizing recycled PET stands out to me, and I’ll be sure to add to my list as I find them.