The best convertible backpack purse for you will vary depending on the size you need, the items you’re carrying, and the style you love. Since the bag functions as both a purse and backpack, it’s easy to accessorize for any adventure. Some can even be dressed up or down depending on your fashion needs.
Our top overall pick for the best convertible backpack purse is the Cluci Leather bag. It’s available in 32 fashionable colors and constructed from high-quality materials. The multiple pockets give you plenty of places to hold all of your accessories.
Options for Convertible Backpack Purses
- Dual-handled bags: The handles are built into the bag and ready to go.
- Movable straps bags: You can shift the straps to change from purse to backpack.
- Sling Bag/Backpack: You can zip the straps to create a sling instead of a purse; this is popular with athletic people.
- Sliding Straps: The straps can simply slide from backpack mode to cross-body mode.
The Best Convertible Backpack Purse Guide
Cluci Leather Backpack Purse
This high-fashion bag gets the top billing on our list. Not only is it available in more than 30 different colors, but it also has PU leather construction that’s water-resistant. The interior fabric lining completes the look. A hidden zipper gives you anti-theft protection. There are multiple interior and exterior pockets to help you organize all of your accessories.
What We Like:
- PU leather bag with a detachable canvas shoulder strap
- Interior and exterior zipper compartments for maximum organization
- Lightweight but large enough to carry a lot
- Water-resistant construction
- Excellent customer service
What We Don’t Like:
- PU leather tends to wear out faster than genuine
Fossil Camilla Leather Convertible Backpack Purse
4.5/5 Stars
The high-quality construction makes this the best small leather backpack purse available. With your choice of five colors, the genuine leather is both fashionable and accessible. You can use the bag as a tote, shoulder bag, and backpack.
What We Like:
- Genuine leather will last for decades
- Functions as tote bag, backpack, and shoulder bag
- Zipper closure with enough room for an iPad Air
- Beautiful and fashionable design inspired by American creativity
What We Don’t Like:
- Only one pocket, so organization is minimal
Banuce Italian Leather Convertible Backpack Purse
This genuine leather bag is of the highest quality on the list. The small design features a cotton and polyester lining, zinc alloy metal, and cowhide leather. The main compartment has two sections, two slip pockets, and two zipped pockets. An exterior front pocket closes with magnets.
What We Like:
- Genuine leather with incredible quality
- Easy snap and magnetic closures
- Multiple zipped and unzipped interior pockets for easier organization
- Soft polyester lining and strong stitching
What We Don’t Like:
- A little too small for women who need large purses
Fjallraven Totepack No. 1 Backpack
If you want a convertible bag made of fabric instead of leather, this is a great choice. Available in eleven different colors, this cotton-polyester blend is both lightweight and durable. The interior has a security pocket to protect your valuables, while the exterior has a front pocket for easy access to important items. There’s also a huge 14 liter storage space.
What We Like:
- Durable and well-made cotton-polyester blend
- Interior security pocket and exterior convenience pocket
- Comes with both long and short handles
- Functions as both a tote bag and backpack
- 14 total liters of storage space for those who need extra room
What We Don’t Like:
- May not appeal to people who don’t like fabric bags
Dasein Lightweight Crossbody Bag
This convertible backpack crossbody design is great for active people who need lightweight gear. The messenger bag design can safely protect a variety of different items. Crafted from vegan leather, the tear-resistant construction is environmentally friendly. There are two side compartments, two exterior pockets, and further interior organization.
What We Like:
- Versatile and lightweight design for people on the move
- Messenger bag has a high level of organization
- Vegan leather is eco-friendly and cruelty-free
- Easy to clean with a damp cloth
- Multiple interior and exterior pockets
What We Don’t Like:
- Messenger bag design can be a little bulky
Pincnel Convertible Backpack
This waterproof nylon bag is engineered with anti-theft properties. It’s also available in 14 different colors, so you can find the one that best suits your personal aesthetic. The backpack comes with four exterior pockets, the main pocket, two regular interior pockets, and a zippered interior pocket. It’s roomy enough to hold an umbrella, laptop, and small books.
What We Like:
- Waterproof nylon and PU leather construction
- Back zipper design has anti-theft properties
- 8 total pockets for whole-bag organization
- Roomy enough to hold a laptop, iPad, and umbrella
- Comfortable, adjustable straps
What We Don’t Like:
- Can’t carry laptops larger than 9.7 inches
Cluci Large Travel Backpack Purse
This is the best convertible backpack purse for travel, so if you’re looking for luggage, look no further! Another knockout option from Cluci, you can purchase this leather bag in 17 different colors. There are multiple interior zipper and slot pockets, exterior zipper and buckle pockets, and side pockets. You can hold everything you need to take in a carry-on for the plane or train.
What We Like:
- Lots of pockets for organizing during travel
- Available with 17 different colors and styles
- Big enough to hold your carry-on accessories
- PU leather with reinforced stitching and canvas shoulder straps
- High-quality after-sale customer service
What We Don’t Like:
- Vegan leather exterior may wear down over time
Carhatt Women’s Legacy
This hybrid convertible bag functions as both a tote bag and backpack. You can purchase it in tan, brown, or black. Unlike many other options on the market, the bag is made from 100 percent polyester that has been treated with water repellent. The zippered interior includes internal pockets and a laptop sleeve, while several exterior pockets add to the organization.
What We Like:
- Polyester with a rain-resistant coating
- Sleek and fashionable design
- Main compartment has a laptop sleeve and two interior pockets
- Exterior zippered pocket and two slash pockets
- Weighs just 1.5 pounds in total
What We Don’t Like:
- Not available in any bright colors
ZOCILOR PU Leather Backpack Purse
This is the best backpack shoulder bag for those seeking a comfortable, roomy satchel. The travel bag is available in colors ranging from bright jewel tones to refined, neutral shades. Converting from purse to backpack is easy. The double-zipper design helps to reinforce the bag and provide extra durability. Several pockets are available for organizing your things.
What We Like:
- Available in 16 different colors and patterns
- Many exterior and interior zippered pockets
- Double-zipper design increases durability
- Comfortable, adjustable backpack straps
- Quality vegan leather construction
What We Don’t Like:
- Straps may be a little unwieldy
Related: Keep Your Dirty Shoes Separate with these 14 Backpacks with Shoe Compartments
CoolBELL Convertible Backpack
This product is the best convertible backpack briefcase on the market. The creative design is capable of holding a laptop of up to 17.3 inches, making it great for professionals on the go. There’s even room remaining to pack clothes into a carry-on. The exterior boasts four pockets for travel organization, while the interior has a specialized laptop compartment.
What We Like:
- Briefcase design can hold your electronics and clothes
- Works as shoulder bag, messenger bag, and backpack
- Four exterior pockets with an interior laptop compartment
- Able to hold laptops of up to 17.3 inches
- Lightweight with an easy-grab, ergonomic handle
What We Don’t Like:
- Not the most compact design on the market
Allcamp Outdoor Gear Diaper Bag
For moms on the go, you’ll appreciate the best convertible backpack diaper bag in the industry. You can carry the item as a tote bag, as a diaper bag, or as a backpack. It can also be integrated with your baby stroller. The waterproof design includes stroller straps and a changing pad for your little one. The smart interior organization includes 11 specific pockets.
What We Like:
- Convertible diaper bag that includes a changing pad and stroller straps
- Waterproof fabric with 11 pockets for maximum organization
- Super comfortable and machine washable
- Easily transforms into a backpack when you’re alone
- More stylish than other diaper bags
What We Don’t Like:
- Included accessories are only necessary for new moms
Cluci Leather Backpack Purse
The detachable design makes this the best carry on convertible backpack when you’re traveling. You can purchase this leather bag in fourteen different colors. As with other Cluci designs, the shoulder strap is crafted from detachable canvas. There are three exterior zippered pockets, two side pockets, and two interior pockets. The interior sleeve can hold a tablet or small laptop.
What We Like:
- Sturdy PU leather with a removable canvas strap
- Multiple exterior zippered pockets for your travel accessories
- Interior holds tablets and laptops up to 14 inches
- Lightweight construction weighs less than 1.6 pounds
- Adjustable straps for comfortable carrying
What We Don’t Like:
- Lacks bright color options
Cheruty Convertible Backpack Purse
This convertible backpack design has anti-theft properties. You can purchase the satchel in 16 colors ranging from sky blue to crimson to sleek black. The waterproof PU leather protects your items from the elements. Inside, there are two slit pockets along with a zipper pocket. You can fit tablets and laptops of up to 10 inches.
What We Like:
- Anti-theft zipper construction makes thievery difficult
- Waterproof PU leather protects your items
- Interior pockets can hold small electronics or valuable accessories
- Can be worn as a backpack, shoulder bag, or tote
- Great gift for travelers and professionals alike
What We Don’t Like:
- Can’t hold electronics larger than 10 inches
Related: Our Favorite Reflective Backpacks for Hi-Visibility
KL928 Canvas Sling Bag
This portable canvas bag is the best small convertible backpack purse on the list. If you’re fashion-conscious, you might also be pleased to find that there are 31 unique colors and patterns to choose from. The spacious interior can hold small items, a water bottle, and books. The exterior is crafted from water-resistant canvas to protect your things.
What We Like:
- Can be carried, worn as a backpack, held over the shoulder, or used as a chest bag
- Lots of space inside for accessories, water bottles, and books
- Lightweight construction with water-resistant canvas
- Anti-theft zippers are hidden from potential thieves
- Elegant overall design with 31 different patterns to choose from
What We Don’t Like:
- Little interior organization built in
Protective and durable, this is the best camera sling bag for hiking!
- Super versatile; can be carried crossbody, sling, chest, or as a backpack
- Designed specifically for hikers with an external water bottle pocket
- Can be used for camera and other items
- Anti-theft pocket keeps your most important things from prying eyes
- No camera-specific organization system or protection
Ecosusi Convertible Backpack Purse
This fashionable, eco-friendly design is the best convertible leather backpack purse for people seeking vegan leather. You can get it in red, tan, or black. The two detachable shoulder straps are completely adjustable for your comfort. Inside the main compartment is a protective laptop sleeve, a small zippered pocket, and two open pockets. The exterior has an open pocket as well.
What We Like:
- Detachable shoulder straps are fully adjustable for maximum comfort
- Made from water-resistant vegan leather
- Easily cleaned using a damp cloth
- Padded laptop sleeve protects computers of up to 14 inches
- Multiple interior and exterior organization pockets
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited color selection
Roulens PU Leather Bag
This cute, trendy design is available in tons of bright colors. It’s the right choice if you’re looking for the best pink leather backpack purse on the market. The waterproof material has reinforced stitching for extra durability. Inside, there are three open pockets and two zippered pockets. The exterior has four zipped pockets and two side pockets. The goal is to hold all your accessories safely.
What We Like:
- Leather construction available in bright, fun colors
- Waterproof materials and reinforced stitching for durability
- Lots of interior pockets for organization
- 4 strategically placed exterior pockets for your important items
- Large enough to hold books, a laptop, umbrella, and water bottle
What We Don’t Like:
- Might not be the ideal shape for some
Fossil Leather Convertible Backpack Purse
This is one of the best black leather backpack purse options for those seeking a tote-style bag. It functions as a tote, shoulder bag, and backpack. You can carry your 13-inch laptop, books, planner, and accessories. The interior has two sliding pockets and a zippered pocket, while the exterior has a single hidden zippered pocket. All crossbody straps are adjustable.
What We Like:
- Sleek, sturdy leather bag that’s simple to use
- Can accommodate tablets and laptops up to 13 inches
- All crossbody and backpack straps are fully adjustable and detachable
- Back zipper pocket on the exterior lets you access things theft-free
- Inspired by American creativity
What We Don’t Like:
- Interior laptop sleeve isn’t padded
Buying Guide for the Best Convertible Backpack Purse
Fabric
The fabric you choose will affect the function, durability, and look of your bag. For example, your search might be limited if you’re looking only for the best white leather backpack purse. But if you look for white nylon instead, there will be more options on the market.
Items that use genuine leather, like the Fossil Camilla, will be more expensive. Synthetic leather is lighter and cheaper, but it will wear down over time. Fabric blends like cotton and polyester might also be used.
Versatility
The point of a convertible bag is that it’s versatile. Bags like the KL928 Canvas Sling can be worn on the chest, over the shoulder, on the back, or in your hand. Different designs will have different levels of versatility. Convertible bags should function as both a purse and a backpack at least.
Durability
As mentioned, genuine leather is the most durable material you’ll find. But that also makes it pricey. Synthetic leather can last for a long time as long as it’s treated correctly, but it will break down eventually.
If your bag will be carrying heavy objects, make sure it has reinforced stitching, like the Roulens bag. This will keep the seams from splitting.
Pockets/Organization
Different bags have different organization systems. Where will you be using the bag? If you need it to travel, you’ll want safe exterior pockets for your important documents. If you’re using it to commute, you’ll need an interior large enough to hold your accessories. Some designs, like the Ecosusi purse, have a padded sleeve to hold your laptop or tablet as well.
Best Convertible Backpack Purse FAQ
What is the best backpack purse?
The best backpack purse is the one that holds all your items, protects them from theft and bad weather, and stays comfortable all day. And it doesn’t hurt to be fashionable, too! Our fave remains the Cluci Leather Backpack Purse.
How to clean a backpack purse?
The cleaning instructions will depend on the materials. Some backpack purses, like the Allcamp Diaper Bag, are machine washable. Others just need to be wiped down with a cool cloth. Check with the manufacturer to see what your bag needs.
Why buy a convertible bag?
Convertible bags are versatile enough to bring with you when traveling, exploring, hiking, or simply commuting to work. You can also avoid shoulder pain from carrying a purse all day. Since you can switch between different carrying methods, you’ll never strain one muscle group too much.
How do you turn a backpack into a tote?
When you have a convertible backpack, transforming it into a tote is super easy. All you need to do is remove the adjustable shoulder straps. The bag should have handles on top, which will allow you to carry it just like any tote bag. There may also be designs that let you simply shift the straps to use them as handles.
Wrapping Up
Convertible accessories are a big deal. When you carry around a purse all day, you get tired. And backpacks can weigh on the shoulders. By changing the strap arrangement, you save your energy — and have a more versatile look to boot!
The best convertible backpack purse depends on the size you need, the materials you want, and your budget. Keep in mind what kind of adventures you’ll be using the bag on. Do you need hiking reinforcement? What about anti-theft measures?
Our top pick overall is the Cluci Leather Backpack Purse. The durable materials will last for years without wearing down, and the organized interior lets you keep all your accessories in the right places. The zipper has anti-theft closures. To convert it, all you need to do is remove the canvas shoulder strap.
