There are a few reasons why someone might want foldable backpacks and tote bags. From the adventurer who travels to some of the world’s best destinations for the hike of a lifetime to the fashion lover who solely goes to Paris or Tokyo for world class shopping, everyone can benefit from having an extra travel bag on hand. 

Stashing a foldable bag within your larger carry-on bag or check luggage is a must when there’s a likelihood that you’ll be shopping it up. Instead of struggling to bring these goods back home, they can fit comfortably in the foldable bag you packed. If you know you’re going on an adventure-themed trip and need a solid backpack to carry your gear, there are tons of options that fold down perfectly and fit in your carry-on luggage. 

Here are a few compact foldable backpacks and tote bags that are great for a range of trips.

Paravel’s Fold Up Backpack

Paravel Fold Up Backpack
Bloomingdale's
$75
Paravel Fold Up Backpack

Some foldable and packable bags only offer that convenience because they’re a bit shapeless, but Paravel doesn’t fall into that category. Though the backpack folds completely flat when in use, it has that classic square shape and can hold a substantial amount of items. The interior holds a laptop, and the external zipped pocket is perfect for easy access to essential items. 

Narwey’s Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

This duffel is a must have travel bag for a few reasons. The material is water-resistant, and the thick straps have reinforced stitching, so it can be carried comfortably and securely. Despite the sturdy material, it’s completely foldable. The interior can fit easily enough gear for a few days away, and the dimensions are small enough that the bag is considered a personal item for budget airlines like Frontier and Spirit. 

HYDAWAY’s Collapsible Travel Backpack

Adventurers won’t only love this backpack for its function, but also it’s style. The print on the back displays four different global landscapes and the fabric is made from recycled water bottles. The thick straps provide comfort when in use, and there’s an adjustable sternum strap making this an ideal backpack for hiking and lugging any gear around. When you’re ready to store this away, fold the bag into itself and it creates a compact pouch with a carabiner on the side. 

Away’s Packable Backpack

This backpack folds into a zippered pouch. The shell of the bag has 100 percent recycled nylon material. The backpack features a trolley sleeve, so you can slip this over your suitcase handle. The shoulder straps have slight padding.

L.L. Bean’s Stowaway Pack

Then L.L. Bean’s Stowaway is a quality companion. The back panel has a wicking material to encourage air flow and tons of interior and exterior pockets. After a day of use, pack it into the included zippered pouch.

BeeGreen’s Shopping Bags

When you know you’re going shopping once you reach your destination, a few reusable bags is always a good idea. This set of six can hold a ton of dresses you scored from local vendors. The bags are sturdy and can hold up to 50 pounds. Each bag comes with its own pouch and is so compact you can throw it in your purse. 

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