Hey ladies! If you’re anything like me, finding the perfect backpack for travel can feel like an impossible task. You want something cute and stylish, but it also needs to be practical and functional. No more dealing with backpacks that look like you’re heading off on a weekend hike or tiny trendy ones with no room for anything useful! I’ve scoured the internet to find the best of both worlds – backpacks that are as stylish as they are functional. These babies will keep all your travel necessities organized while still looking chic while strolling through the airport. Get ready to say bye-bye to backpack backaches and hello to smart storage and charm!
Best Small Travel Backpacks for Women
Let’s get right into it and check out these super stylish and small travel backpack for women picks:
Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack
First up is the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack. This sleek little number is made from environmentally friendly recycled polyester and has a cool boxy shape. But don’t let its small size fool you – this bag fits more than you’d think!
It has a padded sleeve that can fit a 15-inch laptop, plus a few other pockets for organization. There’s a water-resistant coating too, which is clutch for avoiding spills or getting caught in the rain on your travels.
The straps are comfy and adjustable, and the back panel is cushioned so this cute bag won’t leave you with backpack ache. The neutral colors like black, navy and grey make it so easy to pair with any outfit.
This backpack is the perfect size for stashing the essentials for a weekend getaway or even as an underseat personal item on the plane. The sleek, structured shape gives it a modern look that will go with any style.
Patagonia Atom Sling Bag
Next up is a stylish sling bag option from Patagonia, the Atom Sling. This sleek little bag keeps your essentials close while leaving your hands free.
It’s made from durable ripstop nylon so it can handle adventures big and small. The main compartment can fit a tablet, mini toiletries, phone, wallet, book and more. There’s also a smaller pocket on the outside for things you need quick access to, like your phone, credit cards or boarding pass.
As a sling bag, it has one thick, padded strap that’s adjustable to get the perfect fit. I love using sling bags when traveling through airports, train stations and busy tourist areas because it keeps your things secure while allowing you to stay hands-free.
The Atom comes in both bold colors and more neutral shades so you can pick one that matches your personal style. It’s lightweight and water-resistant too, which are two must-haves for any travel bag!
Lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0
If you love athletic style and want a backpack made from performance fabrics, check out the Lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0.
Designed with women’s bodies in mind, this backpack hugs close to minimize bulk while providing plenty of storage. The exterior is made from water-repellant fabric so your things stay dry, and it’s got an array of exterior and interior pockets to keep you ultra-organized.
Inside, there’s a padded laptop sleeve, a tablet sleeve, and multiple pockets for smaller items like your phone, passport, pens and more. I also love the small zip pocket against your back, perfect for stashing essentials you want quick access to.
The shoulder straps are cushioned and the back panel provides air flow, so carrying this pack around is comfy and breathable. With its understated style and performance features, this backpack transitions seamlessly from the yoga studio to the airport terminal.
Away Everywhere Zip Backpack
For the trendy jetsetter, check out Away’s Everywhere Zip Backpack. This streamlined bag combines fashion and function with its sleek silhouette and smart features.
The exterior is made from water-resistant nylon to protect your belongings from drizzles and spills. The zipper extends fully down the back panel so you can lay it open completely while packing to make use easy.
Inside there is a padded laptop sleeve, a pocket for a water bottle, and a few smaller pockets to keep you organized. The side pocket fits a travel umbrella perfectly!
The shoulder straps are cushioned so carrying this pack is comfortable, no matter how much you stuff inside. It also has a luggage sleeve so it can securely attach to your Away carry-on for easy rolling through the airport. How clever!
With its durable but stylish nylon exterior, this backpack is the perfect accessory for the chic, frequent flyer.
Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack
If you’ve got a bit longer trip in mind, you’ll want a backpack with some more substance. Allow me to introduce the Cotopaxi Allpa 28L.
This backpack is specifically designed with travel necessities in mind. It’s got a large main compartment and a specially padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices protected. The front has a vertical zip pocket and two side water bottle pockets for easy access items.
The straps, back panel and hip belt are all padded so you can comfortably carry heavier loads. The back and shoulder straps are also mesh so you don’t overheat while wearing it.
It’s made from durable nylon ripstop fabric with water repellant coating and comes in fun, colorful patterns. The Allpa also has stowable shoulder and hip straps so you can secure it to your luggage when not in use.
With 28 liters of capacity, this pack has enough room for a long weekend but isn’t too bulky for everyday use. The storage features and padded straps make it perfect for the stylish traveler.
Béis Travel Backpack
For the fashionable nomad in search of flexibility, allow me to introduce the Béis Travel Backpack. This innovative bag is perfect for the spontaneous traveler.
It has a roomy main compartment and padded laptop sleeve like other backpacks. But the Béis backpack has a unique expandable feature that zips out to fit up to 25% more stuff!
The extra space is perfect for souvenirs, an unexpected pair of shoes, or other last-minute extras you can’t resist on vacation. The expandable section also compresses back down when you don’t need the space. So clever!
This backpack is made from water-resistant canvas with vegan leather accents. It comes in classic colors like black, navy and olive that pair well with any outfit. The shoulder straps are cushioned for cozy carrying and the back panel has air-flow vents to prevent sweaty backs.
No matter what situation your travels throw at you, this expandable backpack has the flexibility to handle it in style.
Herschel Little America Backpack
If you’re looking for understated elegance, let me introduce the Herschel Little America Backpack. This stylish bag has a heritage look but modern features.
The mountaineering-inspired design features a cinch top, buckled flap and angled pocket. But it’s got a secret laptop sleeve and inner organization pockets that keep your tech safe and essentials handy.
The shoulder straps are contoured and cushioned for comfy carrying. It’s made from durable polyester with waterproof coating to protect your belongings.
This backpack comes in a variety of earthy tones from classic black and tan to fun colors like rose or navy. The timeless silhouette looks sharp whether you’re wandering the streets of Paris or your hometown.
For the stylish adventurer who values subtle sophistication, the Herschel Little America can’t be beat!
Luka Backpack by Calpak
If you’re looking for a backpack made specifically with women in mind, check out the thoughtfully designed Luka Backpack by Calpak.
This pack is shaped to contour to a woman’s body with narrower straps, a shorter torso, and built-in laptop sleeve designed for petite frames. But don’t let its feminine silhouette fool you – this bag fits as much as any standard backpack.
The main compartment can easily hold a weekend’s worth of travel essentials. There’s also a separate padded sleeve for your laptop, tablet and documents, plus RFID-protected pockets for your credit cards, passport and other valuables.
The straps are adjustable and cushioned for all-day comfort. The back panel has a headphone port so you can listen to music while strolling hands-free.
With its stylish silhouette in colors like blush, black and navy floral, the Luka backpack is designed with savvy and safety in mind.
Away F.A.R Backpack
For the design-conscious traveler, Away’s F.A.R backpack is the ultimate carryall. It combines sleek, modern style with smart functionality.
The structured silhouette and luxe nylon exterior come in gorgeous neutrals and bold hues. But the clever features make it so much more than a pretty face.
The laptop sleeve is fur lined to prevent scratches, and there are tons of interior and exterior pockets for organization. It’s made from anti-microbial fabric that prevents bacteria growth. My favorite part is the ejectable laundry bag for dirty clothes!
This bag also has a luggage sleeve to slip over your Away suitcase handle. The straps are thick, cushioned and stowable for versatile carrying options.
With the F.A.R backpack, Away delivers high style and handy features for the sophisticated world traveler.
Wunder Under Backpack by Lululemon
Last but not least, for the athletic ladies out there, I have to share Lululemon’s Wunder Under Backpack. Designed for yoga and gym trips, this bag works equally well for travel near and far.
It has tons of specialized compartments to keep sweaty and clean items separate, plus a padded laptop sleeve. The exterior is made from water-repellent fabric, keeping your belongings dry in any condition.
The straps, back panel and underside of the backpack are made with ventilated fabric to maximize breathability during wear. Interior and exterior pockets galore allow you to stay super organized.
The backpack comes in gorgeous colors like Dew Pink, Chambray and Black and has an adjustable sternum strap for load distribution. With its sporty style and functional design, you’ll want to take this versatile backpack everywhere.
Final Thoughts
Whew, we covered a lot of ground there! As you can see, ladies, there are tons of options out there for cute, functional small travel backpack for women that suit any style.
Discovering how to afford your backpacking holiday is now a stylish journey in itself. No more sacrificing fashion for function – these bags prove you can have both. Whether you’re a minimalist, maximalist, athletic, or fashionista, there’s a backpack that’s right for you. Your travel style starts with the perfect bag!
FAQs
What size backpack is best for travel?
This depends on the length of your trip, but for shorter getaways, aim for 15 to 30 liters of capacity. This provides enough room for essentials without being bulky. For trips over 4 days, go up to 40 liters.
What features should I look for?
Key features include:
– Padded shoulder straps – prevents digging and discomfort
– Padded back panel – provides cushion and support when loaded
– Laptop sleeve – protects your tech
– Water-resistant fabric – prevents damage from drizzle or spills
– Multiple compartments – keeps you organized
How can I determine if a backpack will fit me well?
Look for adjustable shoulder, chest and waist straps so you can customize the fit. The backpack should distribute weight evenly without digging into your shoulders. Well-padded back panels and straps prevent discomfort from heavy loads.
Are backpacks ok for business or nicer trips?
Definitely! Just avoid outdoorsy designs and go for sleek silhouettes in black, navy or grey. Leather or faux leather details add polish for business. Backpacks allow you to keep hands free while looking professional.
Should I get a gender-specific backpack?
Women-specific packs tailor straps and dimensions to female bodies for better weight distribution and fewer pressure points. However, unisex packs work too if sizing is adjustable. Focus on comfort, organizational features and stylish looks vs gendered marketing.