9 Eco-Friendly Backpacks From Sustainable Brands (2024)
The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.
We’ve carried these sustainable backpacks everywhere, from school to weekend getaways — these are our top picks for materials, construction, and price.
Whether you’re heading back to school, running errands around town, or hiking a trail, there are lots of reasons a backpack can come in handy. And as functional as they may be, we love for them to be fashionable, too. But what’s most important to us is to find one that is ethically and sustainably made — a bag that is kind to its makers and the environment.
These bags are responsibly made and/or give back to communities in need, and as they come in different volumes and are equipped with all sorts of compartments, can take you from a workday to the weekend with ease.
Our criteria:
Our editors have worn, researched, and scoured thousands of customer reviews to select the best brands for sustainable backpacks. We regularly update this list with emerging favorites that meet the below criteria.
- SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS | These backpacks are made using sustainable materials and recycled fabrics, minimizing waste and excess production in their manufacturing.
- AFFORDABILITY | If you’re on a budget, you’re in luck, as we’ve made sure to include affordable, sustainable backpack options on this list.
- ETHICS | Each of these sustainable brands is intentional about sourcing and manufacturing, employing cruelty-free practices, and ensuring safe and fair working conditions.
If you’ve got back-to-school vibes on the brain, check out our guides to online classes, shoes, and handbags.
Best Overall | Best For Commuters | Best For Kids
1. Quince
Best For | Sustainable children’s backpacks
Ethics | Eco-friendly, natural & recycled materials, BSCI & Sedex Certified factory production, transparent manufacturing & pricing
Price Range | $45 – $120
Back to school is upon us each year and Quince makes it easy to get organized with their collection of sustainable and child-friendly backpacks. These affordable and eco-friendly knapsacks are the perfect size and have all the necessary compartments needed for kids to keep all their essentials. Choose from recycled nylon, organic cotton or even neoprene options in a number of fun solid colors and patterns. Even better, these recycled backpacks are crafted from up to 29 recycled water bottles! (Psst – be sure not to miss their new collection of adult-friendly backpacks made with Italian leather, and other water-repellent, commuter-friendly materials for the long haul!)
Customer Review | “Really sturdy and well-made backpack. Excited to use it on our upcoming travels” – Mmax (Read all reviews.)
2. Girlfriend Collective
Best For | Solid color backpacks
Ethics | SA8000 certified ethical production, recycled & sustainable materials, circular & take-back initiatives, inclusive sizing, recyclable packaging, eco-friendly dyes
Price Range | $82
Looking for an eco-friendly backpack that won’t clash with your carefully curated OOTD? TGT fave Girlfriend Collective makes a daily backpack that goes with any look. Coming in a range of neutral and muted gorgeous colors (fawn, moss, and rosewood are particularly swoon-worthy!), these monochrome packs are chic and functional. Gone are the days when a random neon zipper or brightly colored tag ruins your ‘fit’s palette. (Bonus: this eco-friendly backpack is made of recycled water bottles and is fully recyclable when you’re done!)
Customer Review | “This quickly became my go-to everything bag. I love the interior slip pocket and sizable front zipper pocket. The pockets on both sides are a plus as a lefty (iykyk). This bag is SO durable and sturdy and just feels incredibly well made. I’ve had it now for several months and it has been a daily gym bag, travel bag, beach bag, and filled to the brim on many occasions and it is still going very strong. LOVE and highly recommend!!” – Alexandra (Read all reviews.)
3. Pixie Mood
Best For | Recycled backpacks that are work-friendly
Ethics | Sustainable & eco-friendly materials, ethically made, fair wages, vegan
Price Range | $60 – $120
Love the sleekness of a leather moment but not the animal product? Pixie Mood’s recycled vegan leather backpacks are the chic, versatile alternative you’ve been looking for. These backpacks are lined with material made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, and most are tech-friendly and even convert into shoulder bags. Perfect for fashionable professionals looking for an efficient yet gorgeous backpack that will complement your work look.
Customer Review | “I love the size, texture, and color of my new mini backpack. The outside material is soft and easy wipe clean. The interior material is beautiful and functional with a zip pocket. So glad this vegan bag was in my price range. I get many compliments on it. Thanks!” – Frances W. (Read all reviews.)
4. Patagonia
Best For | Technical & casual backpacks
Ethics | Certified B Corp, recycled & sustainable materials, fair trade, gives back
Price Range | $79 – $299
Patagonia is known for creating products that are versatile, and this is also the case for its extensive backpack collection. Carefully constructed for more conscious living, the Patagonia packs are made to meet all your needs. Find what you need by sorting the bags by volume, materials used (like recycled polyester and nylon), or features (like hydration compatibility and laptop compartments). Whether you use it for school, as a carry-on, or as an overnight bag, Patagonia backpacks are built for transition.
Customer Review | “Awesome backpack. Holds a lot but distributes the weight so you don’t feel like you are carrying a super heavy pack.” – Mary (Read all reviews.)
5. Terra Thread
Best For | Everyday & mini backpacks
Ethics | Certified B Corp, fair trade, GOTS certified organic materials, gives back, carbon-neutral, eco-friendly packaging
Price Range | $66 – $77
Made in fair trade factories using organic cotton, Terra Thread‘s affordable canvas backpacks are perfect for just about anything. With pockets and compartments for water bottles, laptops, and more, they’ll feel right at home when traveling or simply running errands. They’re also free of toxic dyes, lead, and any carbon footprint! Plus, in partnership with Feeding America, each purchase of a backpack provides meals to kids and families in need.
Customer Review | “I was so happy to find a backpack made with just canvas, no polyester or plastic, and ethically sourced. It’s really good quality, and I love the color options, though I expect I’ll need to get used to the firmer shoulder straps. Thank you!” – Julia V. (Read all reviews.)
6. STATE
Best For | Personalized backpacks
Ethics | Gives back, ethically made in China, nontoxic
Price Range | $78 – $210
If you (or your kid) are into monogrammed bags, look no further than STATE, which allows you to personalize your backpack with both your initials or embroidered symbols. More than just style though, STATE has got substance: For every bag purchased, the company supports American families in need, including donating backpacks full of supplies to local students and partnering with schools and charities. With a variety of vegan, water-resistant, and recycled material options, you’ve got plenty to choose from.
Customer Review | “Absolutely love this bag. I had tried out some other bags, even settled on another one which I had been using but didn’t love. Came across this one when I saw it on a mom while I was at an ice cream shop and just knew it would be a good fit. It has exceeded my expectations and while this may sound silly, it brings me a lot of joy.” – C.D. (Read all reviews.)
7. 8000Kicks
Best For | Hemp backpacks
Ethics | Industrial hemp & recycled material, eco-friendly packaging, gives back, OEKO-TEX Certified
Price Range | $99 – $139
8000Kicks makes durable, waterproof, and sustainable hemp backpacks for everyday use. Made from eco-friendly hemp, these backpacks are known for their strength, water resistance, and lightweight design. Most models feature laptop compartments making them ideal for work or travel, with additional features including waterproof zippers, side pockets for bottles or umbrellas, and reinforced straps for comfort and durability. 8000Kicks carbon offsets through their hemp farms and tree planting, and is also committed to only using OEKO-TEX certified materials.
Customer Review | “I’m impressed; bigger than I expected but that means I can pack a jacket. I like the way the top opens like a bag and pockets of all sizes. Well designed, minimal but complete. More secure than most . I like that it’s made of hemp, where appropriate and waterproof is a plus. I’m a designer myself and I say well done!” – Michael Kotting (Read all reviews.)
8. YLX Gear
Best For | Color options
Ethics | Vertically integrated manufacturing, gives back, recycled materials, 1% for the planet
Price Range | $27 – $86
YLX Gear is all about creating stylish, functional bags that don’t cost the earth — literally. With a strong focus on sustainability, YLX uses recycled materials (think plastic bottles!) to make bags like the Finch, which are built to last and reduce waste pollution. Plus, with padded straps and smart pockets for all your gear, you’ll be comfy and organized on the go. YLX believes going green doesn’t have to be expensive, and they’re out to prove that sustainability and affordability can go hand-in-hand!
9. ORI London
Best For | Wide mouth backpacks
Ethics | B Corp Certified, recycled & upcycled materials, vegan friendly, carbon zero commitment
Price Range | $80 – $110
Since 2020, ORI London has focused on reducing plastic waste by repurposing items like plastic bottles and pre-consumer fabric scraps for their eco-friendly bags and backpacks. Their canvas and nylon materials are not only recycled, but also water-resistant and vegan-friendly, packaged in biodegradable cornstarch. As a certified B Corporation, ORI is dedicated to making a positive impact beyond their profits. Their goal is to achieve Carbon Zero within five years by supporting environmental and community initiatives.
Customer Review | “I love the backpacks and crossbody bags, they’re well made and handy as I walk with crutches.” – Jennifer Gall (Read all reviews.)
Featured image is from Quince
