Fjallraven Kanken

I got this little backpack to use while attending an exec education program. It is a powerhouse! I fit my laptop, pens, notebook, snacks, water bottle, coffee mug, sweatshirt and small purse plus my phone into this bag daily. The size is perfect for a laptop that is 17” or smaller and you get an amazing array of colors to chose from which I appreciated. The zippers are sturdy and the fabric is a type of canvas, has a thick feel that holds up well and also washes well. Just make sure to remove the foam pad in the inner pocket used to cushion the pack when it’s on your back. I don’t think this pad would survive a washer/dryer cycle without damage. Cool European style and makes a great weekend travel bag to haul all your stuff at the winery or while biking the waterfront. Definitely recommend! Read more

First, some background: I purchased my first Kanken on a trip to Canada in 2015. At first I was skeptical of the narrow unpadded straps, but the sales person told me she had thought that as well and that they work better than one might think. Ten years and several more Kankens later, I can say that she was right! The Kanken Original 16L is a fantastic choice for me. I recommend it for anyone who is short both in overall height and in the torso. I am 5’2, narrow shouldered and with a short torso. It is hard to find packs that carry a reasonable load and do not bother my neck or lower back. I find the Kanken capacity ideal for daily, casual use as well as a carry-on for flights. The open ended design means the bag can be packed and organized for a variety of purposes. It makes a fantastic camera bag, grocery bag and day pack for moderate excursions. I find the sternum straps that Fjallraven sells make the Kanken even more functional. I have a few in different colors and swap them out to change the look of the bag. I finally decided to leave a review because I am SO TIRED of reviews that fault the two side pockets for not fitting water bottles. A little research of the product, found on their website, makes clear that this bag was created in 1978. I for one am old enough to recall the 70s. No one, and I do mean no one, was carrying water, much less in personal bottles, in 1978. You were lucky to have soda or an old canteen that was your grandfather’s in the car on long trips. We used water fountains at school and moms who liked to splurge kept tiny paper cups by the sink. Doubtless that makes me sound old, but I hate seeing such a fantastic product maligned because some people do not understand the context in which it was created. I also admit that the straps will not feel good for some people. It’s important to remember with backpacks that they are not a one size fits all item. Everybody’s shoulders and necks are different. For example, one of my daughters loves the design of the Kanken, but it does not suit her neck and shoulders. My son, meanwhile, loves carrying one. The Original 16L Kanken is a high quality product. Its versatility and function have gotten me all around town and even around the world more than once. I have yet to wear one out and I look forward to many more years of use. Read more

I loved the fit and the quality is pretty great. I’ve had one before but I lost it which is why I bought a new one. There is only two pockets one outside and one inside so I did buy an insert for it. I use it as a daily bag since it can fit a lot of things. I do recommend being a little mindful of its material since it does dirty easily but typically a wet rag can get bag to normal. Read more

I got this backpack for my daughter and we love it! It’s made with super strong material and the color is gorgeous. It’s like a TARDIS—bigger on the inside than it looks on the outside. It looks small but is extra roomy. My daughter stuffs the backpack to the gills, as it easily holds stuffed animals, markers, her sketchbook, books and even clothes, without ever looking too full. At first I thought it was an expensive purchase, but I am pleasantly surprised by its quality and durability. Definitely worth every time penny. I completely recommend it. You will not be disappointed! 10/10. Read more

I purchased the Fjällräven Kånken (Terracotta Brown/Ultramarine) as a gift for my 8-year-old nephew, and it’s proven to be both functional and visually appealing. The wide-opening main compartment makes it easy for kids to pack and unpack on their own, and the structured, boxy shape is a major plus—it comfortably fits a lunchbox and water bottle side by side, with room to spare for school supplies or a jacket. The design is timeless, the colors are vibrant yet tasteful, and the overall durability lives up to Fjällräven’s reputation. For parents or relatives looking for a well-sized, well-made backpack that balances practicality and style, this is an excellent choice. Read more