Backpack Purses

elegant backpack bag
Backpack Purse Styles

Backpack purses became popular as one of the 90s hottest handbag trends and have experienced a resurgence in popularity. Convenient, stylish, and roomy, these hybrid bags are perfect for anyone who has a lot to carry but doesn't want the hassle of a large, awkward bag.

Shopping for Backpack Purses

Although they've experienced a revival, backpack handbags are still not as easily available as some of the today's trendy purse styles. Knowing which brands offer these bags and where to shop can help you find the perfect mini-backpack for you.

Top Brands

The following brands offer them, each with traits unique to their label:

  • WisePack: The WisePack women's backpack travel purse is an ergonomically correct bag made from rip stop nylon and features plenty of organizational features. The no-nonsense bag offers sleek styling but is available in black only. Purchase via the brand's website.
  • Vera Bradley: The Vera Bradley Petite Backpack is an everyday bag available in over 20 of the brand's pretty floral quilted fabric prints. The pack is available on the brand's website, in Vera Bradley boutiques, and select handbag retailer, including eBags. Along with standard purse styles, the brand also makes laptop backpacks and ditty drawstring style bags.
  • Donna Sharp: Donna Sharp bags are designed with fabric or quilted material. You'll find modern and geometric prints along with feminine floral prints. Visit the website to request a catalog and find a store locator, or purchase online from a retailer such as Shoebuy.com.
  • Anuschka Handbags: Anuschka's sling backpacks are artistic and sophisticated. The hand-painted leather is durable and beautiful and available in unique designs. These bags are designer styles, and prices typically start at more than $200; visit the brand's website to purchase the latest looks.
  • The Sak: Known for their unique textures, The Sak's handy backpacks are available in select crocheted and leather styles, such as the Sport Crochet bag and the Ventura Convertible backpack. Shop at Nordstrom.com or the brand's website, among other sources.
  • Coach: Well-known and loved for their high quality, Coach offers a small backpack handbag in signature fabric (available on the designer's website). Vintage and discontinued styles from the brand, including petite leather versions, can be found on online auction sites.
  • Ameribag: Designed for health and comfort, single sling Ameribags include the Classic Healthy Back Bag, a mid-size purse, and a smaller, lighter version, the Baglett. Materials include nylon, microfiber, and leather. Available at many shoe and luggage retailers online, you can also purchase at Walmart.com or Sierra Trading Post.
  • LeDonne: LeDonne offers sling backpack styles in sophisticated leather looks for the contemporary woman. Purchase at luggage or leather stores including Luggage Pros.

More Shopping Options

If you need more shopping options, consider the following, all of which allow you to browse by backpack category:

  • Ebags: A large selection in various materials and price points is offered here.
  • ShoeBuy.com: A large number of leather styles are availabel here, along with some higher-end brands.
  • Bag King: Mostly casual styles are available at this travel-focused retailer.

You may have luck browsing for mini-backpacks or small travel backpacks at other shops as well. Check at travel and luggage shops, leather retailers, shops that specialize in fabric items, and the handbag section at department stores.

Choosing Your Style

The basic style of a backpack or sling purse is to have a narrower top with a drawstring opening or flap, widening to a larger base. The actual dimensions, strap widths, and features vary depending on the manufacturer or designer. These casual handbags are made for quick, easy access and convenient carrying, freeing the wearer's hands for other tasks. Some sling purses are made to be worn over just one shoulder, while others can be worn over both shoulders. Many include a top handle for traditional carrying if desired.

Materials

Materials vary widely for backpack purses. The most common designs use canvas, leather, or denim, but other materials such as nylon, suede, and satin are available.

Important Features

sporty mini backpack

Backpack purses have a variety of different features that allow them to adapt to different personalities and situations. When investigating different designs, check for the following:

  • Strap design. Some sling purses have very narrow straps that may be uncomfortable if the bag is heavy, while others offer a zippered option where two small straps zip together to become one thicker strap. Padding, adjustability, and durability are other strap features to note.
  • Pocket arrangement. Many bags offer both interior and exterior pockets. All exterior pockets should be secured with buttons, clips, buckles, or zippers for security. A small interior pocket for ID cards, cash, or miscellaneous small items is a nice feature, and divided compartments help keep the purse organized.
  • Specialty compartments. Different bags may offer specialized compartments or hooks along the side, handle, or interior to accommodate cell phones, iPods, keys, or other equipment. This is a handy way to keep these items safe and easy to find.
  • Durability and maintenance. A stronger bag will last longer, and one that is either machine washable or can be easily wiped will stay looking its best longer than less durable models.

When to Wear

Because of their convenience and ability to hold more than most standard purses, backpack handbags are great for shopping, sightseeing, travel, and day trips, particularly if extra items such as a small guidebook or a camera are required. Very stylish bags are also great for active dates or even semi-formal events.

On the other hand, just as every purse does not work for every situation, backpack purses are not appropriate for very formal events such as weddings, nor are they suitable for professional use. Because they are worn out of sight, they may not be the best choice for crowded situations where pickpockets are a possibility. They are not typically large enough to serve as diaper bags or to carry multiple school books.

Convenient and Stylish Alternatives

Backpack purses are a stylish alternative to bulky, awkward backpacks or too-small handheld bags. With a virtually unlimited range of styles coupled with multiple useful amenities, these convenient bags are great for many different situations.