9 Best Eco Friendly Backpacks for Every Need: Buy It For Life

Looking for a backpack that’s built to last and meets high functionality standards? Our list of the 9 Best Eco-Friendly Backpacks for Every Need showcases sustainable picks designed to outlive you—offering functionality, safe materials, and beautifully crafted designs. From military-grade durability to functional designs for content creators, hikers, everyday commuters, zero-waste enthusiasts, preschoolers, and kids, these backpacks show that you don’t have to sacrifice performance or aesthetics to go green.

1. GORUCK GR1: Tactical Durability, USA-Made

Price Range: $335

What Makes It Stand Out:


The GORUCK GR1 is built to military specifications and proudly made in the USA. Constructed from ultra-durable 1000D Cordura nylon, this backpack is designed to last for decades, not just years. It features a bombproof laptop compartment, a minimalist layout with MOLLE webbing for modular add-ons, and a lifetime warranty through GORUCK’s SCARS repair program.

Pros:

•  Made from abrasion-resistant 1000D Cordura nylon
• Opens flat for easy packing; streamlined internal layout
• Padded, elevated laptop compartment for maximum protection
• Modular with MOLLE-compatible webbing
• Made in the USA with a lifetime warranty
  

Cons:

• High price point
• Heavier than average (3.2 lbs for the 26L)
• Shoulder straps take time to break in
• Lacks built-in tech features or advanced organization

2. WANDRD PRVKE: Stylish Functionality for Creators on the Go

Price Range: $219–$289 (depending on size and add-ons)

What Makes It Stand Out:


The WANDRD PRVKE is designed with creatives and photographers in mind, blending urban aesthetics with travel functionality. Constructed from weather-resistant tarpaulin and 1680D ballistic nylon, it’s sleek, structured, and packed with smart features like a roll-top expansion, quick side camera access, and optional camera cubes. This eco strikes a rare balance between fashion and utility, making it a favorite for content creators, commuters, and minimalist travelers.

Pros:

• Weather-resistant materials with a modern, urban look
• Expandable roll-top design (up to 36L in the 31L version)
• Side-access pocket ideal for cameras or quick grabs
• Magnetic tote handles and hidden passport pocket
• Modular setup with optional camera cube and accessory straps
• Fits carry-on size and TSA-approved laptop compartment

Cons:

• Not as rugged as military-grade bags (not ideal for harsh outdoor abuse)
• Main compartment can feel tight if overstuffed or loaded with camera gear
• Roll-top takes longer to access than traditional zippers
• Add-ons (camera cube, straps) cost extra
• Shoulder straps could use more padding for long hauls
  

3. Hyperlite Mountain Gear Summit Pack 30L: Ultralight Adventure Essential

Price Range: $229

What Makes It Stand Out:



The Hyperlite Summit Pack 30L is built for ultralight purists who demand performance over features. Made from Dyneema® Composite Fabric (formerly Cuben Fiber), it's insanely light yet durable and naturally water-resistant. Weighing just over 12 oz, it’s perfect for summit pushes, minimalist travel, or ultralight thru-hiking. Stripped-down by design, this pack is all about function with no fluff — a go-to for those who count every ounce.

Pros:

•  Incredibly lightweight (just over 12 oz)
• Made from rugged, weather-resistant Dyneema® Composite Fabric
• Simple, clean design with roll-top closure and removable hip belt
• Built in the USA with a minimalist ethos
• Packs down small when not in use

Cons:

• Minimal padding and support — not ideal for heavy loads
• No internal frame or structure
• Lacks organizational compartments
• Pricey for a bag with very few features
•  Not suited for EDC or tech-carry use
  

4. Solgaard Lifepack Backpack: Sustainability Meets Innovation

Price Range: $125–$245

What Makes It Eco-Friendly:

Solgaard's Lifepack takes eco-friendliness to the next level with its sustainable work backpacks. Their Shore-Tex™️ is made from recycled ocean plastic. With a 10-year warranty, Solgaard ensures the longevity of its products, minimizing waste.  With their eco friendly backpack you can charge your devices anywhere. Lifepack has four secret pockets and a patented, anti-theft lock to keep your valuables secret, and secure. 

Pros:

• Made from recycled ocean-bound plastic
• This anti-theft backpack helps you protect your belongings
• Integrated USB port for charging devices
• 10-year warranty
• Partnered with Plastic Bank to remove plastic from oceans

Cons:

• Premium pricing compared to non-sustainable options
• Limited style variety

5. 8000Kicks: Embrace Hemp Sustainability

Price Range: $159

What Makes It Eco-Friendly:

8000Kicks offers eco friendly backpacks made entirely from durable hemp fabric. Hemp is naturally water-repellent, eliminating the need for harmful chemicals like PFCs. The brand manufactures its backpacks in China and Portugal, ensuring fair labor practices and free healthcare and education for workers in the family-owned Portuguese factory.

Pros:

• Made from 100% hemp fabric
• Water-resistant without PFCs
• Ethical labor practices and free healthcare for workers
• Made 18L expandable up to 30L
•  Has embedded USB plug
• Weights only 1.05kg | 2.31lb
• Beautiful, zero-plastic, natural design 

Cons:

• Limited size options
• Minimal style variety

6. Jack Wolfskin Track Jack: Smart, Sustainable Pack for Young Travelers

Price Range: $75–$95

What Makes It Stand Out:

The Track Jack is a versatile 20L kids’ backpack designed for school, travel, and everyday use. It combines function with Jack Wolfskin’s eco-conscious values—crafted from recycled materials and finished without PFCs for a lower environmental footprint. With a padded back, adjustable shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and internal organization, this eco friendly backpack is built to keep up with active kids while keeping gear tidy and accessible.

Pros:

• Made from recycled materials with PFC-free finish
• Padded back and adjustable straps for all-day comfort
• Sternum strap for better weight distribution
• Organized interior with laptop/tablet sleeve and name tag
• Stylish and practical design for school or travel

Cons:

• 20L capacity may limit packing for overnight trips
• Fewer fun, playful design options for younger kids

7. Stubble & Co Everyday Backpack: Sleek, Waterproof, and Perfectly Organized

Price Range: $145–$165

What Makes It Stand Out:

The Stubble & Co Everyday Backpack lives up to its name, offering a smart blend of style, sustainability, and everyday functionality. Crafted from recycled PET fabric with a recycled RPET lining, this 20L eco friendly backpack is waterproof, lightweight, and incredibly well-organized. Travel + Leisure testers praised it as the best laptop backpack for daily use, with standout features like varied pocket sizes, sleek construction, and impressive water resistance—even after a full shower test.

Pros:

• Made from recycled materials (PET and RPET)
• Waterproof exterior protects electronics even in heavy rain
• Padded 16" laptop compartment
• Thoughtful layout with 9+ pockets, including strap and top pockets
• Slim, compact design fits a full day's essentials
• Lightweight (2.2 lbs) with breathable mesh back

Cons:

• Adjustable chest strap can detach and is tricky to reattach
• 20L capacity may be limiting for travelers or those needing extra room
• No bottom padding for added protection of heavy items

8. The North Face Youth Mini Explorer: Eco-Conscious Design for Young Adventurers

Price Range: $39

What Makes It Stand Out:

The North Face Youth Mini Explorer is a 10-liter eco friendly backpack designed for preschoolers and early elementary kids. Crafted from 600D recycled polyester with a non-PFC durable water-repellent finish, it reflects The North Face’s commitment to sustainability. The backpack features a padded back panel and shoulder straps tailored for smaller frames, a spacious main compartment, dual water bottle pockets, and a fleece-lined top lid with fun zipper pulls. Additional details include a front metal-snap pocket for organization, a hook-and-loop chest strap for extra stability, 360-degree reflectivity for safety, and an internal name tag for personalization. We chose this backpack for Emily, and the size has been perfect for her to carry around since she was 2 years old.

Pros:

• Constructed from recycled materials with a non-PFC DWR finish
• Kid-friendly design with padded, size-appropriate straps
• Ample storage with multiple compartments and pockets
• Chest strap adds extra comfort and security
• Enhanced safety features like 360-degree reflectivity
• Affordable price point
• The most adorable style

Cons:

• 10L capacity may be limiting for longer outings, but it's ideal for tiny back.

9. Salkan The Daypack: Sleek, Expandable Companion for Everyday Adventure

Price Range: $145

What Makes It Stand Out:

The Daypack from Salkan is a thoughtfully engineered 21L eco friendly backpack built for both urban commutes and off-grid excursions. Designed to complement the brand’s larger Travel Backpack, it also shines on its own with a minimalist aesthetic, weatherproof materials, and clever modular features. Made with recycled, PFC-free fabrics and a water-resistant roll-top closure, it offers adaptability for a range of environments. Its standout feature? Compatibility with Salkan’s Travel Backpack as a detachable day bag—perfect for one-bag travelers.

Pros:
    •    Made with recycled materials and PFC-free coating
    •    Water-resistant roll-top for flexible packing and weather protection
    •    Padded laptop sleeve (up to 16") and internal organization
    •    Hidden valuables pocket and external water bottle access
    •    Can be attached to the Salkan Travel Backpack for modular travel
Cons:
    •    Premium price point compared to similar daypacks
    •    Roll-top style may not appeal to those who prefer zipper access
    •    No external lash points or daisy chains for gear-heavy use

Whether you're a digital nomad, outdoor adventurer, or daily commuter, the best eco friendly backpacks combine longevity, sustainability, and smart design. Investing in a “buy it for life” backpack not only reduces waste but supports brands committed to ethical practices and greener materials. Choose consciously—your future self (and the planet) will thank you.