12 Backpacks That Will Make You Rethink Your Go-To Bag

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One thing you would not have heard me say five years ago is, "Where can I get a cool backpack?" But as I get older and somehow accumulate more crap in my bag, backpacks have become the ideal choice for a hassle-free schlep across town. Ahead, the best picks for every occasion—from the gym to the office—that will make you reconsider grabbing your tote the next time you walk out the door.

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For the Gym

Lululemon, $128

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Once you realize that this chrome backpack has an interior water bottle pocket, plus enough room for a change of clothes and sneakers, you'll wonder how you ever made the office-to-gym commute carrying anything else.

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For the Gym

Everlane, $80

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Everlane's waterproof backpack is equipped with a pocket to slip your laptop into, so you can also head straight to your workout from the office. The difference? It's a gym bag that doesn't actually look like a gym bag, so it can double as a weekender.

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For the Gym

Adidas, $150

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This super chic Adidas by Stella McCartney knit backpack has a zip compartment underneath its main area to keep your sweaty clothes separated from your clean ones.

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For the Office

MZ Wallace, $245

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The quilted pattern on this MZ Wallace bag lets you pull off a cooler vibe in laid-back work environments without looking like you're heading to Coachella.

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For the Office

Madewell, $198

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Behold: a vegan leather bag that can be carried by the handle, worn over both shoulders, or slung over one arm without any worry that you're going to rip the straps. It has enough room to fit your entire life—laptop, tampons, lipstick, and all—and comes in black if you plan to keep it at the front of your closet year-round.

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For the Office

Rebecca Minkoff, $275

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This convertible leather backpack doesn't immediately look like a backpack, which is exactly the point. It can be worn on your arm if you're heading to a meeting or on your back if you're holding your coffee in one hand and answering emails in the other.

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For Vacation

L.L. Bean, $109

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Enjoy a little adventure? Then you'll love this weatherproof backpack that can withstand rain, sleet, and snow if you're planning to explore any national parks this summer.

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For Vacation

Herschel, $80

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This unisex minimal knapsack screams, "Take me everywhere" with its padded shoulder straps and sleek fleece interior. It's ideal for any travel environment, from the Hamptons to the Carolinas.

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For Vacation

Free People, $198

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Found: a bag that fits all of the essentials for an overnight trip with easy accessibility to convert into a stylish canvas accessory during the day. Yes, there are plenty of pockets.

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For the Weekend

Baggu, $68

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Meredith Blake, is that you? This black mini canvas backpack is perfect to schlep around during shopping trips or grocery runs without sacrificing your style.

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For the Weekend

Cuyana, $375

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Blink and you'll almost mistake this backpack for a classic bucket bag. If you can afford to splurge a little, this soft leather silhouette is sturdy, beautiful, and has an easily accessible pocket to slip your phone into so it doesn't drown in your receipts.

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For the Weekend

Urban Outfitters, $34

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A mini backpack fit for all-play-no-work weekends whether you're heading to brunch with girlfriends or having a picnic in the park.