Backpack style handbag suggestions

I was hunting for a backpack-style handbag that didn’t scream ‘school trip’ or ‘hiking expedition,’ but it felt like everything out there was too bulky, plain, or trendy for my style.
I wanted something elegant but practical that could hold my essentials (and a million other random things) without making me look like I was about to climb a mountain.

Yes, TK Maxx for bags!

Pop to TKMaxx - they have loads of really nice leather backpacks in there usually. Also, you could try on VINTED if you don’t mind a second hand one.
As others have mentioned, be careful in Barcelona and a few other similar cities; they will literally cut the straps off whilst it’s on you in a crowded place…..

I saw a nice ROKA backpack today as mentioned on here. It was in a National Trust shop and the material was kind of soft and padded at the back, so would be comfortable.

I also prefer a cross body bag especially when traveling on the tube, is so much safer. But have a light Kipling backpack if am staying over at my daughter’s to babysit, it is a faff keep taking it on and off but does have a zipped pocket on the back that is flush to my back when wearing it, where I show my purse and phone etc., so is also safe.

I use a cross body bag for travelling.
Otherwise it's on off on off on off

I agree Doodledog My two backpacks are leather, husband has a fabric one for walks etc. I love leather, it's hardwearing, ages extremely well and suits more occasions than fabric.
The larger tan one is used as my carry on when we fly to see family and the smaller, rather lovely dark green with tan trim Rowallan one is perfect for everyday use. It gets packed in the suitcase to be used once we're there. Husband's fabric one is ideal for carrying water, snacks, sunscreen etc

I know what Allira means. I have a leather backpack which is smart enough to use as a casual handbag. A fabric one would just get used as a backpack.

That sounds daft, as both are used to carry things, but it makes sense to me . I'll try again - I would go for lunch or into town using a leather backpack, a fabric one would be more for going for a walk or on holiday.

Another vote here for Mia Tui; I have a lovely rose-gold rucksack from them; only avai!able on line, I think.

silverlining48

I am impressed with Kipling… I know my place

😂😂

Check out Ebay see a wide range of bags in one place.
You may even see a pre-loved that you'd like to buy at a reasonable price.

I am impressed with Kipling… I know my place

Hi I have a lot of Roka bags fantastic and lovely colours.

Allira

I've just looked at the Aspinal backpacks 😯
I'd expect a holiday to be included at that price!

I suppose it depends if you want smart or just functional.

Yes I just looked and couldn’t believe the price tags.
Oh well, and there I was thinking I was showing off with a Kipling bag.
Will get my coat.

I've just looked at the Aspinal backpacks 😯
I'd expect a holiday to be included at that price!

I suppose it depends if you want smart or just functional.

Ladyripple

I have a bag from Aspinal,bought last year,not impressed with the quality at all.

I have had Aspinal bags for 20 years, only had one problem on one bag. I returned it to the shop it was repaired for free and sent back to me.

Who cares about age appropriate? We've earned the right to not care about such things!

The only thing I'd worry about with the backpack styles would be to look for one that has a back pocket to put things, like your purse, into so it's between your back and the back of the backpack which makes it harder to pickpocket!!

Definitely Mia Tui!

I have a bag from Aspinal,bought last year,not impressed with the quality at all.

Following this as I am looking for a lightweight one to use as hand luggage on a long flight. Needs to be quite roomy. Some useful suggestions.

I love the look of backpacks and they are comfortable but find them frustrating to shop with as I have to take mine (FatFace) on and off whenever I want anything out of it.

Lululemon has lovely backpack, my daughter chose it for Christmas. It appears very stylish and she is well pleased.

Annofarabia

I have a sling bag from Amazon. I wear it across my front. It is light and I’ve found it really useful.

These can be worn either front or back or even just under one arm.
Much safer in my experience.
Anything on your back is easy peasy for dippers.

Rowallan do nice leather ones and they arent too heavy . They are a Scottish ompany as well I believe.

I have a back pack type of handbag which I bought abroad but I have seen them at a charity sale in UK The bag folds across the zip so that the zip is enclosed so not easily opened by anyone following behind. I have just seen the same style in the shop in Blackburn Hospital They have a range of colours and tan leather straps. and only £28