Sustainable Backpacks for School, Work, and Beyond

The search for the perfect sustainable backpack is a big part of the back-to-school shopping journey. As students strive to become more sustainable in their everyday lives, the demand for eco-friendly supplies (backpacks included!) has only increased.

With the endless amount of available options, how are you supposed to make a decision? We have planet-friendly, sturdy, and stylish options that might make deciding a little easier. Better yet, they're affordable: One is just $32. Here are the best sustainable backpacks for school and beyond.

9 Sustainable Backpacks for School and Beyond

1. Organic Cotton Sustainable Backpack, $69.95

This sustainable backpack has everything you could ever want, from a spacious laptop compartment to side pockets for your reusable water bottle. What makes this backpack even greater is that it's ethically made with organic cotton and every purchase supports Feeding America.

2. Washable Paper Backpack, $32

A backpack made out of paper that's actually durable? It exists. This bag is made from tree cellulose, which comes from trees that are responsibly harvested and replanted. It has a lower carbon footprint than your average backpack and its style is timeless, meaning you can use it for years to come.

3. The Brevite Backpack, $129

There's a lot to love about this sustainable backpack. It comes in a wide variety of colors to suit every student, has a roomy main compartment and tons of pockets, and even features a passport pocket for all the world travelers out there. Plus, it's made with recycled materials.

4. Matt & Nat Alex Vegan Backpack, $165

If you're looking to make a serious fashion statement on campus this upcoming semester, this bag from Matt & Nat was made for you. The Alex Backpack is completely vegan and cruelty-free, and the interior lining is made of 100% recycled water bottles.

5. United By Blue Commuter Backpack, $98

The Commuter Backpack from United by Blue is perfect for school, travel, and all your other packing needs. It's responsibly made in Vietnam from 100% recycled polyester with a water-resistant finish and 60% recycled nylon.

6. Patagonia Arbor Roll Top Pack Backpack, $129

This backpack from Patagonia isn't just super sleek—it's also sustainable. The body is made of 100% recycled polyester, it has a padded laptop sleeve that's accessible through an outside side zipper, and it's Fair Trade Certified sewn.

7. Madewell MWL (Re)sourced Backpack, $88.50

This ultra cute backpack from Madewell is perfect for all your back-to-school needs. It's made with 43% recycled polyester, has snap-close mesh pockets, and an O-ring to snap your keys on.

8. STATE Kane Double Pocket, $125

This backpack is made from 45% recycled materials, including an interior lining made of recycled polyester. For every product purchased, STATE donates backpacks to American children and families in need, as well as funds projects that support schools and organizations.

9. Girlfriend Collective Please Recycle Backpack, $82

Girlfriend Collective's sustainable backpack is made from recycled materials and is recyclable at its end of life when it's too worn out to continue using. You can grab it in eight different colors.

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