In a time when most backpacks are made of nylon or leather, canvas backpacks stand out from the crowd. So what is canvas exactly? If you’re thinking of the material that artists paint on, you’re not wrong. Canvas is a sturdy woven fabric that is typically made of cotton or linen. Canvas is a great material for backpacks because of its legendary durability. Beyond paintings and backpacks, canvas can also be found on tents and the sails of ships.
Canvas backpacks have a vintage air to them. Their design and materials are inspired by and adapted from old military backpacks, which were made of canvas trimmed with leather and had buckle fastenings. Because of their military roots, today’s canvas backpacks usually come in neutral colors like tan and camouflage-inspired olive green.
Most canvas backpacks have closing mechanisms that distinguish them from other types of backpacks. Whereas zippers are the primary fasteners on modern backpacks for school or sports, drawstrings and buckles are typical of canvas backpacks. While the military backpacks that inspired this look had functioning buckles for security, today’s canvas backpack buckles are usually ornamental and hide a snap or velcro for easy access.
The Gootium 21101 Specially High Density Thick Canvas Backpack encompasses everything that comes to mind when you think of an archetypal canvas backpack: vintage style, drawstring and buckle closures, sturdy canvas, and a selection of neutral colors. This backpack even comes in two sizes, so you can carry as much or as little as you want with you.
Fjallraven is committed to making nature more accessible. Their Rucksack No. 21 Backpack is the perfect canvas carry-all for your next adventure. Outdoor enthusiasts will love this backpack’s water resistance and removable padding that doubles as a seat. Professionals and students will enjoy the bag’s laptop sleeve and variety of sizes and colors.
The Ibagbar Canvas Backpack is the ideal camping companion. This spacious 30 L bag can fit all of your gear, including a 15” laptop for the times when you don’t want to stay completely off the grid. Convertible straps and multiple handles make this rucksack easy to carry as a backpack, duffel, and hand-held bag.
The KAUKKO Laptop Backpack is the best canvas backpack for people who want a sleek, modern take on this classic style. This backpack comes in a variety of colors, sizes, and materials for more than 40 total style options. Its laptop sleeve, water bottle compartments, and ergonomic design make it the perfect canvas backpack for students.
This GEARONIC canvas backpack is another take on the classic design of a vintage military bag. Its 42 L capacity makes it the largest bag on our list, which means that it can fit all of your gear for camping, school, work, or the gym. Vintage fans will love the five neutral colors that this backpack comes in.
Canvas backpacks provide utility and durability in a vintage-inspired package. Users of the Gootium 21101 Specially High Density Thick Canvas Backpack say it’s the best canvas backpack on the market, and our research agrees. Whether you choose this bag or another on our list, you’ll be pleased with your decision. There’s a canvas backpack for everyone on this list.