Hey fellow students! Just arrived in Spain and getting ready for the semester? Are you also struggling with what kind of backpack to buy? I had the same headache when I first got here. It needed to fit my 13-inch laptop, a few heavy textbooks, a water bottle, a makeup bag, and sometimes a light jacket… And most importantly, it had to look good! After all, you’ll be carrying it every day. After some trial and error, I’m here to share a few well-regarded brands that are easy to find in Spain, hoping to help anyone in a fix.
Affordable & Stylish Choice: Parfois & Misako
If you’re on a budget or love to switch up your accessories to match your outfits, you must check out Parfois and Misako! Both are local Spanish fast-fashion accessory brands, and you can find them in almost every shopping mall.
Their backpack styles are updated frequently and are always on-trend, ranging from minimalist to bohemian. The prices are very attractive; during sales season, you can even snag one for twenty or thirty euros. The downside? You get what you pay for. If you’re lugging around a heavy laptop and books every day, the durability might not be the best, and the straps might start to dig in after a while. But for daily commutes or days with fewer books, they offer fantastic value for money. For more ideas, you can also check out these backpack recommendations for university students in Spain.
The Iconic Classic: Fjällräven Kånken
This “Swedish fox” bag is incredibly popular on university campuses across Europe! Its square design is practically made for carrying books and laptops, fitting A4 folders perfectly. The material is water-resistant and durable, so a little rain is no problem.
What I love most is the vast array of colors; you’re sure to find one that steals your heart. Although the classic model’s straps are a bit thin, you can buy separate shoulder pads for added comfort. It’s not just a backpack but a fashion statement that effortlessly elevates any look. A word of caution: due to its popularity, there are many fakes, so I recommend buying from official channels like the official website or El Corte Inglés.
The Balance of Function and Style: Herschel Supply Co.
If you find the Kånken a bit too “student-like,” take a look at the Canadian brand Herschel. Their designs lean more towards vintage and street-style trends, and many models feature dedicated padded laptop sleeves and headphone ports, showing great attention to functionality.
Their capacity is generally larger than the Kånken’s, and the internal organization is more practical, making it easy to find your things. The only drawback is that the canvas material is slightly heavier than the Kånken. You can find Herschel in boutique stores and major department stores in Spain, making it a great choice for students who carry a lot and need good organization.
Quick Comparison Summary
To give you a clearer comparison, here’s a simple table:
| Brand | Pros | Cons | Price Range |
|---|
| Parfois/Misako | Many styles, affordable, easy to find | Average load-bearing and durability | €20 - €50 |
| Fjällräven Kånken | Classic design, durable, wide color range, lightweight | Thin straps, no internal dividers | €80 - €120 |
| Herschel Supply Co. | Stylish design, good internal organization | Slightly heavier, some models can be large | €70 - €110 |
| Longchamp Pliage | Let’s not talk about this one, it’s too expensive Ultralight, water-resistant and durable | Pricey, almost no internal dividers | €100+ |
Choosing a backpack really comes down to your budget, academic needs, and personal style. I hope my sharing today gives you some inspiration! Feel free to leave a comment below and tell us what amazing backpacks you’re using. Let’s share some great finds for future students!
