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6 Best Backpacks for Thrifting

By Rachel

published 01/25/2024

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I’ve rounded up 6 best backpacks for thrifting to help you navigate thrift shops with comfort and ease!

For those who love the thrill of thrift store shopping, the right bag can make all the difference. It’s not just about carrying your finds home but also about being prepared for the unexpected treasures that await. In this article, we’ll explore the 6 best backpacks for thrifting!

They range from stylish to practical options that will elevate your thrifting game. If you are looking for thrifting hacks, this one is a must-read. Join me on the journey to find the perfect bag to accompany you on your next thrifting adventure!

Why Go Thrift Shopping Using a Backpack?

Years ago, when I first started thrifting, I wore a side body bag. You know, the ones that have one strap over either shoulder? Well, I quickly learned that those bags were not conducive to thrift shopping. At all.

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You see, thrift stores, vintage shops, antique stores, and flea markets are all about digging. Sifting through old things, bending down, stooping, and reaching are all body movements that are needed to be successful at finding the good stuff.

And, when wearing a side body bag or regular one strap purse, the thing just gets in the way! It falls down in front of you, right where you are trying to look. I’ve even had times where my purse has fallen off me completely and landed on the ground!

One day, I simply had enough and knew that I needed to search for a more practical bag. Through all my years of thrifting shopping experience, this is one of the best thrifting hacks that I know!

Fun Fact: I truly do wear my small backpacks thrifting! I tried to snap a photo when I was out thrifting last week. This is the best I could do with it being just me 🙂

So, I searched and searched for a small, compact backpack that could hold my thrifting essentials which include:

And, I’m happy to report that there are many options out there that will suit any need. From sizes to colors to brand, there is a backpack for everyone!

6 Best Backpacks for Thrifting

Below, I have rounded up 6 of the best backpacks that I think work well for thrifting, traveling, or just everyday! There are links to all of the products I’m sharing today. Simply click on the teal text and it will take you right to it!

1. All About Backpack

The all about backpack from Athleta is sleek and chic! I chose this one due to the neutral color and modern design.

This pack would be perfect to use for those all day flea markets because it would be able to hold all of the things needed for a day of pickin’.

2. The North Face Berkeley Mini Backpack

Next up is The North Face Berkley mini backpack from Scheels. From experience, anything with The North Face brand is going to be high-quality. I chose this one not only for the pretty color but also for the more rugged appearance of it.

If you weren’t going to use it for thrifting, this would be a great pack for day hiking or running errands!

3. Travelon Coastal Backpack

The next bag on the list is the Travelon Coastal backpack from DSW. This backpack is no-fuss and extremely streamlined. Aren’t the striped straps so cute?!

This one does come in a few different colors such as a sunny yellow. Pockets are essential when it comes to thrifting bags and this one has many!

4. Carhartt Mini Classic Backpack

The Carhartt brand mini classic backpack, from Amazon, is unique because it’s waterproof! So, if you are at an outdoor vintage market and it start’s raining, no problem!

I love the simple aesthetic of this pack. It does what you need it to and gets the job done!

5. Adidas Linear 3 Mini Backpack

The Adidas Linear 3 mini backpack, also found at Scheels, is in my personal ‘thrifting bag’ collection.

It’s such a fun and whimsical pattern and is super comfortable. This pack is perfect for a casual day of thrifting as well as traveling!

6. Vera Bradley Small Backpack

Lastly, the Vera Bradley small backpack is my personal favorite.

Also in my collection, the quilted pattern of the stitching is so fantastic. This bag is larger than the Adidas one above so I like to bring it on longer, all day antiquing trips. I can fit all of my thrifting essentials inside plus any small vintage decor items that I find!

Easy Thrifting Hack

There you have it! I’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up 6 of the best backpacks for thrifting. Using a backpack while thrift shopping truly is one of the best thrifting hacks because, from much experience, it makes secondhand shopping so much more enjoyable.

Backpacks don’t get in the way, they can hold all of the things you need, and can also double as a re-useable shopping bag instead of using plastic!

It’s also easier on your back while walking around for a long period of time.

Closing Tidbits on 6 Best Backpacks for Thrifting

Finding the perfect backpack for thrifting can greatly enhance your shopping experience. By considering factors like size, durability, and organization, you can find a backpack that fits your thrifting needs. It’s one of the easiest thrifting hacks out there:) I truly hope that these 6 best backpacks for thrifting ups your thrift shopping game!

Why not start your thrifting journey with one of my recommended backpacks and see the difference it makes? Happy thrifting!

Leave me a comment! Do you like to bring a pack with you when you go thrifting? I love hearing from you!

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If you are new here, I’m Rachel, the writer and content creator here at The Antiqued Journey. I’m so happy to have you! I encourage you to stop by the ‘about me’ page to get to know me a little more.

Here on the blog, you will find loads of inspiration for decorating with vintage and antique decor, simple DIY crafts and many thrifting adventures. If that interests you, I invite you to sign up for my e-mail. You will receive a free digital download as a thank you!