I Saw This Classic Backpack Everywhere in Europe, and Now I Use It Every Day

I use backpacks frequently and for many different purposes. Sometimes I need to haul my laptop to a coffee shop or meeting. Other times, I use one to run errands or for outings with my kids. Additionally, I travel about once a month and always use a backpack to carry water and other essentials when I am on the go. That means I take my backpack choice seriously, and I need one that blends form, function, and style. Fortunately, I finally found one that works great for my lifestyle.  

On a trip to Europe, I saw the same backpack everywhere. I took a closer look and discovered it was the Fjallraven Kanken. I decided to take the plunge and get one of these iconic bags for myself. Now that I have my own Kanken, it’s become my go-to backpack. I can see why it has stood the test of time and is a classic for a reason. 

The Kanken has been around since 1978, when Swedish outdoor clothing and equipment company Fjallraven developed the backpack to help prevent back problems in schoolchildren. From its humble roots in Swedish schools, the Kanken spread throughout Europe and then gained popularity worldwide. 

The classic Kanken has a large main compartment with zippers that go almost to the bottom of the bag. That makes it easy to pack and unpack. The Kanken also has a smaller outside pocket, perfect for items I need to keep handy, such as my phone, wallet, and keys. The backpack also features two convenient, attractive top handles, a foam panel sewn into the back both for comfort and for cushioning a laptop, and two open side pockets for small water bottles or other items like pens, sunglasses, or headphones.

I love that the Kanken is available in an almost endless variety of colors, including one with rainbow straps. The backpack has evolved from its original design into an entire line with variations, including a mini version for those who don’t need to carry much and a sling. My personal favorite is the laptop Kanken. It has an extra zippered compartment that fits my computer perfectly.  

You can also buy accessories for your backpack, like an internal organizer with additional pockets, padded strap attachments, and an optional additional pocket that users can clip on to the outside of the bag. 

Although I love the Fjallraven Kanken for everyday use, it also makes a great travel backpack. On top of being thoughtfully designed and looking great almost anywhere, the Fjallraven Kanken is very lightweight. It’s made from a durable Vinylon fabric and weighs just 12 ounces. 

As a bonus, the Fjallraven Kanken stores almost completely flat, perfect for packing in a suitcase. It takes up virtually no room and weighs less than a pound, so I can easily lay the backpack on top of my clothing or under it before zipping my luggage. Then, once I reach my destination, I can use the backpack as a daypack throughout my trip. The Fjallraven Kanken is very comfortable, even when fully loaded, which is another benefit when traveling. It’s also waterproof and quick-drying. I’ve gotten caught in more rainstorms than I can count while traveling, so having a backpack that can stand up to the elements is essential. 

The Kanken’s classic styling looks great everywhere. I feel just as comfortable wearing it in the streets of my hometown, Washington, D.C., as I do in the mountains of Japan. That’s important to me as someone who travels frequently. 

Moreover, my Fjallraven Kanken still looks nearly brand-new after near-daily use because I can throw it in the washing machine. While I am glad the Fjallraven Kanken was built to last, the only downside is that it’s hard to justify buying one in a new color, even though I’m often tempted to do so. 

Buy: Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 13”, $120