We run the NicheStuff store; some links in this post go to products we sell.
A backpack makes a great gift because it gets used. Unlike a lot of holiday presents, a good bag goes to work, school, the gym and on trips for years. The key is matching the bag to the person: a frequent flyer needs something very different from a toddler or a weekend hiker. This guide groups ideas by who you’re shopping for, with tips on choosing well and links to our more detailed guides.
Before you buy: four quick questions
- Where will they use it? Office, school, trails, airports or nights out.
- What do they carry? A laptop, a lunch, a camera, baby gear or just a phone and wallet.
- What’s their style? Classic leather, outdoorsy, minimalist or fun and colorful.
- Does size matter? For laptops and airline limits, it does. Check measurements before you buy.
If you’re unsure, a gift receipt and a versatile mid-size bag are your safest bet.
For the frequent traveler
Travelers appreciate a carry-on pack that opens like a suitcase, has a padded laptop sleeve and fits under the seat on budget flights. Small travel accessories, like a strap phone pouch, a dry bag or a luggage tag, also make good add-on gifts. Our best travel backpacks guide explains what to look for, and our travel essentials checklist has more accessory ideas. If they’re torn between a pack and wheels, our travel backpack vs. carry-on suitcase comparison can help.
For the commuter or student
A sleek everyday pack with a padded laptop sleeve, a quick-access pocket and comfortable straps is a gift they’ll use five days a week. Check the laptop size first. See our commuter backpack guide and laptop backpack guide.
For the hiker
A daypack in the 15 to 25 liter range, a hydration pack or a waterproof pack liner makes sense for anyone who spends weekends on the trail. Our hiking daypack guide covers sizing, and our guide to buying a hiking backpack goes into more detail on fit.
For kids
Kids love a backpack that feels like theirs. For little ones, choose something small, light and fun. For school-age kids, sturdy construction, padded straps and the right size matter. Our best backpacks for kids guide covers sizes by age.
For new parents
A diaper bag backpack with insulated bottle pockets, a wipes pocket and stroller straps is one of the most useful baby-shower or holiday gifts. See our diaper bag backpacks guide for the features that matter.
For him
Leather and waxed canvas backpacks make classic gifts for men who want something that looks good at the office and ages well. Our men’s backpacks guide covers materials, sizes and care.
For her
A backpack purse in leather or a fun print is a stylish, hands-free alternative to a handbag. Our backpack purses for women guide explains sizes and convertible straps.
Fun gifts for animal lovers
Plush animal backpacks are a playful gift for kids and grown-ups who love pets.
For cat fans
The Tuxedo Cat Backpack is a soft plush backpack shaped like a tuxedo cat, with a ragdoll cat version too. It’s as much a cuddly companion as a bag, so it suits light loads like a phone, wallet and snacks.
For dog lovers
The Corgi Backpack is a plush corgi backpack for kids, adults and anyone who adores dogs. It holds small everyday essentials and makes a cheerful gift for a dog lover of any age.
A useful extra for travelers
The Leather AirTag Luggage Tag is a genuine-leather luggage tag with a cutout that holds an Apple AirTag (sold separately) and a leather strap with a buckle. Pair it with a travel backpack or give it on its own to someone who flies often.
Shop the gear
Heads up: NicheStuff is our own shop, so we earn from purchases made through these links.
Stocking stuffers for backpack lovers
Small extras pair well with a new bag or make a nice gift on their own:
- A strap phone pouch for hikers and travelers.
- A roll-top dry bag to keep a phone or passport dry.
- Packing cubes for anyone who travels with a backpack.
- Keychains and bag charms to personalize a pack.
- A reusable water bottle that fits a side pocket.
Tips for giving a backpack
- Check sizes. For laptops and airline limits, compare real measurements, not labels.
- Think about weight. A heavy leather bag isn’t ideal for someone with back problems; a light nylon pack might be better.
- Pick a versatile color. Black, gray, navy and tan go with everything. Save bold prints for people you know love them.
- Add something inside. A travel-size toiletry kit, snacks for a hiker or a book for a commuter makes the gift feel complete.
- Include a gift receipt in case the size or style isn’t quite right.
Wrapping a backpack
Backpacks are awkward to wrap, so skip the paper. Stuff the bag with tissue so it keeps its shape, tuck a small extra gift into the front pocket and tie a ribbon around the handle. A reusable tote or the box it shipped in also works.
When to order
Holiday shipping gets busy, so order early to make sure the gift arrives in time, especially for personalized or handmade items. Check the shipping times on each product page.
Not sure which type of backpack to choose?
Our guide to backpack types, compared explains each style and who it suits, which makes it easier to match the bag to the person.
FAQ
Is a backpack a good gift?
Yes. It’s practical, used daily and comes in styles for every age and taste. Match the type to how the person spends their days.
What’s a good backpack gift for someone who travels a lot?
A carry-on travel backpack with a clamshell opening and laptop sleeve, or travel accessories like a luggage tag, phone pouch or dry bag.
What backpack should I buy a child?
Choose a size that fits their body, keep it light and let them pick a design they love. See our kids’ backpack guide for sizing by age.