It may sound a little strange when it’s said out loud, but you don’t always know when you’re going to need to carry something. Whether it be an unexpected trip to the grocery store or a day out on your vacation when carrying a rolling suitcase doesn’t make a lot of sense, sometimes you just need a go-to bag for carrying your essential items. What you’re actually looking for is one of the best packable bags.
Packable bags come in a surprisingly large range of different shapes and sizes. However, once thought about, the principle of a bag compacting down for easier storage does lend itself to any bag size, so long as it doesn’t possess an entirely rigid frame. Here is a selection of the packable bag styles that are available:
Daypacks
Backpacks
Slings
Grocery Bags
Fanny Packs
Coolers
Duffle Bags
Totes
One other major benefit of investing in a packable bag, especially if you’re taking a trip to the grocery store, is not needing to take a new plastic bag or buy a new reusable one every time. This is not only beneficial to you if you live in a state where it costs money per bag, but it’s hugely beneficial to the environment, too.
Below you’ll find 13 of the best packable bags. We’ve included bags for all different kinds of occasions, from grocery shopping to hiking. Scroll down to find the right one for you.
1. Venture Pal Packable Travel Daypack
BEST OVERALL
If you’re searching for a reliable, high-quality packable daypack, this Venture Pal Packable Travel Daypack is hard to beat. It’s constructed from a tear and water-resistant nylon fabric and weighs a miserly 0.7 pounds, making it ideal for packing in your bigger luggage when traveling or vacationing. The bag offers a spacious, 40-liter capacity and includes several pockets and compartments for tailored carrying of a range of items. Furthermore, this popular packable bag is backed by over 13,500 five-star ratings and comes in 11 different colors, three of which are truly eye-catching.
Buy: Venture Pal Packable Travel Daypack $22.99
2. G4Free Lightweight Packable Shoulder Backpack
BEST BUDGET
Given its compact size, the G4Free Lightweight Packable Shoulder Backpack offers a surprising amount of storage space. Inside each of the packable bag’s two zippered compartments, you can fit everything from your iPad to your wallet. You’ll also find a mesh pocket on either side for storing a water bottle or umbrella. The lightweight bag packs down into a convenient pouch for easy storage until it’s needed. It also includes breathable mesh straps, adjustable buckles and comes in 18 different colors.
Buy: G4Free Lightweight Packable Shoulder Backpack $14.99
3. BeeGreen Foldable Shopping Bags
BEST DESIGNS
One step on the path to going greener is replacing disposable plastic bags with reusable ones, like these BeeGreen Foldable Shopping Bags. In addition to helping save the world, what’s even better about each of these six-bag packs is the eye-catching designs they include. Options include everything from geometric patterns to cartoon animals. Furthermore, these bags are made from a tough, ripstop fabric and include large, reinforced handles for impressive functionality.
Buy: BeeGreen Foldable Shopping Bags $16.99
4. Amazon Basics Ultralight Portable Packable Bag
LIGHTEST
The Amazon Basics Ultralight Portable Packable Day Pack is a compact backpack that is ideal for hiking, errands and keeping as a general go-to bag option. It sports a 25-liter capacity and includes both a front-facing and an internal zippered pocket. You’ll also find two side-mounted mesh pockets and adjustable straps which ensure a comfortable and secure fit throughout the day. When not in use, the bag can be stuffed into its own pocket for compact storage and easier portability. Furthermore, the ultra-light bag is water-resistant and sports two-way zippers for added convenience.
Buy: Amazon Basics Packable Day Pack $17.44
5. TRIPPED Gear Travel Backpack
BEST FEATURES
In addition to the range of features you’ve come to expect from a packable bag, the TRIPPED Gear Travel Backpack includes a few extras which make it worth checking out. If you’re always wearing sunglasses, the bag includes a handy microfiber pocket to keep them protected when stored. The bag also comes in a number of stylish colors, including deep-sea blue, rosewood red and moss green. For easy storage, the smart design collapses down into the front pocket to give you a compact disc with a built-in carrying handle. Plus, this bag features an internal zippered pocket, numerous braces for attaching external items and adjustable straps with a chest brace for a secure fit.
Buy: TRIPPED Gear Travel Backpack $17.95
6. Venture Pal Outdoor Sports Backpack
BEST COLOR RANGE
If you want a specific backpack color or one to stand out in a crowd, the Venture Pal Outdoor Sports Backpack could be the choice for you. This ultra-light pack comes in 11 different colors, several of which are eye-catching and bright. Inside, this multi-pocketed bag has space for a small laptop or tablet. You’ll also find a large main compartment and two front-facing, zippered pockets. Furthermore, the bag’s base has been double stitched to provide added durability.
Buy: Venture Pal Outdoor Sports Backpack $19.99
7. ChicoBag Original Packable Bag
BEST GROCERY BAG
This pack of four ChicoBag Original Packable Bags is a convenient and easily stored answer to carrying your groceries. Not only are these bags eco-friendly because you won’t have to take a disposable plastic bag, but they can also comfortably hold up to 25 pounds. Each bag in the set is supplied with a handy carabiner clip, making it easy to attach your bag to keychains, backpacks, purses or any place you know they will be when you need them. Plus, if the bags get dirty, it’s possible to cold wash them in a washing machine.
Buy: ChicoBag Original Reusable Bag $23.96
8. Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack
COMPACT PICK
At 18 liters, the Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack is a compact yet effective way to carry essential items. Whether it’s a water bottle, an extra layer of clothing or lunch for the day, this packable pack can handle the task. The packable bag is made from a tough, 40D nylon ripstop fabric and has dual zippers in the main compartment for greater convenience. You’ll also find two mesh side pockets as well as a handy zippered top pocket for easy access to your essential items.
Buy: Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack $29.75
9. CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag
BEST COOLER
It’s not just your average bags that can collapse down for easier carrying. This CleverMade Cooler Bag can do it, too. The bag’s walls are insulated to maintain internal temperatures while the leak-proof material keeps everything inside. This 20-liter model has enough room for 30 cans with accompanying ice, making it ideal for beach days, pool days and picnics, too. In addition, this collapsible bag includes a shoulder strap and carry handles to give you a choice of carrying options.
Buy: CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag $41.98
10. Osprey UL Stuff Duffel
BEST DUFFEL
The Osprey UL Stuff Duffel is a 100% synthetic bag that is capable of compacting down into its own ultra-compact, built-in storage pocket. The impressively reviewed bag features a dual-zippered main compartment along with an external zippered pocket and accompanying key clip. The shoulder strap includes a padded cover to provide additional comfort when you’re on the move. Plus, the high-quality, nylon ripstop fabric makes this duffel more durable than your average bag option.
Buy: Osprey UL Stuff Duffel $33.02
11. Away Packable Sling Bag
BEST SLING/FANNY PACK
If you’re only looking to carry a few essential items, like keys, cards, headphones and money, the Away Packable Sling Bag could be the smart choice for you. Yes, it is still packable, being capable of folding down into a small square with an attached tether for easy storage. When folded out, the fanny pack-style bag includes two zippered pockets and an adjustable waist strap for a comfortable and secure fit. Plus, the bag is bright orange, so it’s always easy to locate inside your luggage or backpack.
Buy:
Away The Packable Sling Bag
$45.00
12. Away Packable Carryall
BEST TOTE
Totes, like this Away Packable Carryall, are a truly versatile option to keep on your person. No matter whether you’re traveling or just popping to the store, when unfolded, this bag offers a handy amount of space for carrying everything from everyday essentials to your grocery shopping. The bag also includes dual handles for greater comfort when carrying the bag. Furthermore, it’s available in your choice of black, navy blue or cayenne.
Buy:
Away The Packable Carryall
$75.00
13. Patagonia Black Hole Duffel
LARGEST
The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel was given its name for a reason. When it comes to filling this bag, it seems to create endless amounts of space. Technically though, this packable bag offers 55 liters of space. It’s also available in five different colors and, when not in use, packs down to an impressively compact block that is easily stored or transported. The bag’s ripstop polyester fabric sports a film that is highly water repellent. Storage-wise, the bag includes a zippered side pocket and two internal lid pockets for storing smaller items. You’ll also be able to choose between carrying the bag with the removable backpack straps or the heavy-duty carry handles.
Buy:
Patagonia Black Hole Duffel
$139.00
The Best Ultralight Backpacks for Summer 2021 Adventures
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