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The 12 Best Convertible Purses That Turn Into Backpacks

When freelance writer Adele Chapin isn't tracking dining trends and fun things to do in her hometown of Washington, D.C. for work, she's planning out every meal possible for her next vacation. Her beats include food, travel, fashion, shopping, and event planning, and Adele's stories have appeared in the Washington Post, Eater, Condé Nast Traveler, Bloomberg Businessweek, Bravo, Racked, Refinery29, BizBash, and more.

See recent posts by Adele Chapin

Looking for a new bag that’s made for a multi-tasking mom? These 12 versatile bags do double-duty, easily transforming from a purse into a backpack. Instead of packing multiple purses on your next trip, get one bag that can do it all — from shepherding kids through the airport hands-free to going out to a nice dinner on vacation. Here are some of the best convertible purse/backpacks, ranging from sporty nylon options to work-ready leather bags.

1. Senreve Mini Maestra

Celeb-beloved brand Senreve makes bags that are all about options. These Italian leather purses incorporate convertible straps that easily switch from tote to crossbody to backpack. Besides the Senreve Mini Maestra‘s sophisticated good looks and extensive color range, the bag includes handy features like a padded tech sleeve, leather key leash, and lots of pockets. Need to carry a laptop or just a Kindle? The bag comes in both larger and smaller sizes (including a slightly narrower version called the Senreve Mini Alunna Bag). 

2. Rebecca Minkoff Convertible Mini Julian Backpack

This zippered backpack is one of Rebecca Minkoff’s bestselling styles, maybe because it’s so practical. The Rebecca Minkoff Convertible Mini Julian Backpack version with suede fringe and gold hardware combines practicality with boho style. The backpack straps are removable, so you can switch it up depending on your plans. 

3. ZAC Zac Posen Eartha 

Designer Zac Posen’s chic top-handle satchel can go hands-free, thanks to removable backpack straps. The ZAC Zac Posen Eartha leather bag features an exterior pocket and is available in camel or black, either of which is sure to match all of your travel looks.

Related: 10 Best Packable Women’s Sun Hats for Travel 2021

4. LOLA Convertible Mini Backpack

This tiny nylon bag from Los Angeles brand LOLA might not hold a ton, but it can do a lot: wear it as a backpack, crossbody purse, or sling, depending on how you adjust the convertible strap. You can even click the LOLA Convertible Mini Backpack on a belt loop for a stylish belt bag look. The mini backpack is sold in eye-catching colors like neon, camo, or fluorescent pink.

5. The ANDI Small Bag

A few snaps of a crossbody strap, and The ANDI Small Bag turns into a super-handy zippered backpack that fits your essentials but isn’t too big to lug around. The designers thought of all the angles, adding a matching zip pouch, hidden pockets, and a strap that can hold a yoga mat or slip around a wheelie bag. Plus, the bag is made partly from post-consumer recycled plastics.

6. Matt & Nat Annex Loom

Known for vegan leather bags incorporating recycled materials, Matt & Nat’s take on a convertible backpack is simple and streamlined. Easily toggle between a backpack or a crossbody bag—both looks feature a zippered compartment inside the Matt & Nat Annex Loom bag’s front flap to keep things secure.

Related: 7 Best Wine Bags and Suitcases That Will Keep Your Wine Safe

7. AllSaints Kita Convertible Leather Backpack

If you aren’t into a structured tote or satchel, AllSaints figured out how to turn a slouchy hobo bag into a backpack. The top handle of this pebbled leather AllSaints Kita Convertible Leather Backpack unhooks so you can carry it on your back via whipstitched straps, and it’s roomy enough for a small laptop. Zippers on the top and the side of the bag keep your valuables secure, and there’s a detachable card case too.

8. Baggallini Eco Naples Convertible Backpack

There’s something vaguely Prada-esque about this lightweight Baggallini Eco Naples Convertible Backpack, made out of recycled water bottles. It can be worn as a backpack or a sling, thanks to adjustable straps. It’s meant for travel, with a padded tablet pocket and an interior panel for credit cards and other must-haves.

9. The Carry-All Tote

Phone, laptop, water bottle, you name it, and Betabrand’s The Carry-All Tote has a pocket dedicated to it. This large, lightweight tote in sturdy nylon easily converts from a crossbody bag to a backpack and back again.

Related: 9 Lightweight Sumer Sandals Perfect for Packing

10. Beis The Sport Nylon Convertible Tote

Actress Shay Mitchell set out to make the perfect gym bag, and what she came up with can alternate between a tote bag or a backpack. Made out of nylon, Beis’ The Sport Tote features a roomy pocket that cinches closed with a drawstring. There are also thoughtful features like a water bottle compartment and a key leash.  

11. MZ Wallace Convertible Backpack

Quilted, lightweight nylon totes from MZ Wallace are really popular for commuting and travel, and the brand makes a hands-free version as well. The MZW Small Metro Convertible Backpack can be carried via backpack straps or a top handle. It has more than 10 pockets and fancy touches like Italian leather trim. 

12. Lotuff Sling Backpack

Rhode Island-based Lotuff Leather mashed up a backpack and a bucket bag and the result is Lotuff The Sling Backpack. This pricey, made-in-New England bag is built to last, and features adjustable straps that allow you to carry it on your back or on your shoulder. Go for a timeless shade like camel, or a fun color like electric blue.

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