Looking for the perfect backpack for outdoor adventures or everyday use? Columbia offers a range of high-quality and functional backpacks to suit any need. In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of the best Columbia backpacks, featuring durable construction, practical designs, and a variety of sizes and styles. Whether you’re planning a hike or just need a reliable backpack for school or work, our top picks have got you covered.
Buyers Guide
When it comes to buying a backpack, there are many factors to consider to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here are some key features to consider when choosing the best Columbia backpack for your needs:
- Size and Capacity: The first thing to consider when choosing a Columbia backpack is its size and capacity. This will depend on what you plan to use the backpack for. For example, if you plan to use it for hiking, you’ll need a backpack that’s large enough to carry your gear and supplies.
- Comfort and Fit: It’s important to choose a Columbia backpack that’s comfortable to wear, especially if you plan to use it for long periods. Look for backpacks with padded straps and back panels, and adjustable straps for a customized fit. It’s also important to consider the weight distribution of the backpack and how it sits on your back.
- Durability and Material: Columbia backpacks are known for their durability and quality, but it’s still important to consider the material and construction of the backpack you choose. Look for backpacks made from high-quality materials such as nylon, polyester, or a combination of both. You’ll also want to consider the zippers, stitching, and overall construction of the backpack.
- Features: Consider the additional features that the backpack offers. Does it have enough pockets and compartments for your needs? Does it have a hydration system? Does it have a laptop sleeve? Does it have reflective detailing for visibility at night? These are all important features to consider.
- Price: Finally, consider the price of the backpack. Columbia backpacks range in price depending on the size, features, and materials used. Determine your budget before you start shopping and look for a backpack that offers the features and quality you need within your budget.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to find the best Columbia backpack to meet your needs and preferences. Don’t forget to read reviews and compare models to find the perfect backpack for your lifestyle.
Types of Columbia Backpacks
Columbia offers a wide range of backpacks for different needs and activities. Here are some of the most popular types of Columbia backpacks:
- Hiking Backpacks: Columbia hiking backpacks are designed for outdoor enthusiasts who love to hit the trails. They come in a variety of sizes and capacities to accommodate your gear and supplies. Look for hiking backpacks with features such as hydration systems, ventilated back panels, and multiple compartments for organization.
- School Backpacks: Columbia school backpacks are designed for students of all ages. They come in a range of sizes and styles to fit everything from textbooks to laptops. Look for school backpacks with padded straps and back panels for comfort, as well as multiple pockets and compartments for organization.
- Travel Backpacks: Columbia travel backpacks are designed for adventure-seekers who need a reliable backpack for their travels. They come in a range of sizes and styles, from daypacks to larger backpacks for longer trips. Look for travel backpacks with features such as lockable zippers, multiple compartments, and padded straps for comfort.
- Laptop Backpacks: Columbia laptop backpacks are designed for students and professionals who need to carry their laptops with them. They come in a range of sizes and styles to fit different laptop sizes. Look for laptop backpacks with padded sleeves to protect your laptop, as well as multiple compartments for organization.
- Casual Backpacks: Columbia casual backpacks are designed for everyday use, whether you’re heading to work or running errands. They come in a range of sizes and styles, from small daypacks to larger backpacks for weekend getaways. Look for casual backpacks with features such as waterproof fabrics, adjustable straps, and multiple compartments for organization.
- Kids Backpacks: Columbia kids backpacks are designed for children who need a reliable and functional backpack for school, camping, or other activities. These backpacks are typically small to medium-sized and made from durable materials such as polyester or nylon. They often feature padded straps and a fun design that appeals to children.
By choosing the right type of Columbia backpack for your needs, you can ensure that you have a reliable and functional backpack that meets your needs and preferences. Consider the features and size that are most important to you, as well as the quality and durability of the materials used.
Top Picks for Best Columbia Backpacks
Columbia
Starting off the list is the Zigzag Columbia backpack. With 30 liters of capacity. This backpack has everything you need, and nothing you do not! The beauty of this bag is its simplistic nature while still maintaining usability. This day backpack features 2 main compartments, in addition, there is a padded laptop sleeve. Perfect for laptops and tablets up to 15 inches. It's perfectly capable of storing headphones, a laptop, a sweatshirt, and more. It features two accessory compartments, perfect for smaller items. In addition to all that you get sleeves for pens and business cards. The gear loops on the outside are perfect for clipping items onto, for even more storage! Quality is apparent and you can see what sets this Columbia backpack from the rest is the stitching. Columbia has gone the extra mile to make sure your backpack is expertly crafted for many years of use!
- Built to last
- Good size
- Quality
- Zippers could use double stitching
- Built in laptop sleeve
- 30 Liter
- 2 Large main compartments
Columbia
The Northport Columbia backpack is perfect for day trips or general use. Featuring 28 liters of storage, you still have plenty of space to make use of this backpack. Where this pack will excel is in rain. With Columbia's "Omni Shield" protection, you can rest easy knowing rain and stains will slide right off the backpack. With a large roomy main compartment, with included sleeve for padding your precious laptop. Also featured is a smaller compartment perfect for wallet, glasses, and miscellaneous small items. Padded mesh straps relieve tired shoulders and the two water bottle holders on the side, make it very appealing for hauling extra waters on a day hike. A fantastic pick that you cannot go wrong with.
- Air mesh shoulder straps
- Handy organizer compartment
- Adjustment straps are short
- 28.3L
- Rain and stain resistant
- Padded shoulder
Columbia
Need a simple, no-frills backpack? Sometimes you just need to keep it simple, we get it. The Columbia Classic Outdoor is just the ticket. With its simplistic design, you can make use of the large main compartment, as well as the smaller front compartment. Quality zippers and stitching adorn every Columbia backpack, so no worries there. Did we mention it's pretty stylish? Perfect for everybody, from short day hikes to teen's first day at high school. Columbia always offers the best.
- Versatile
- Durable
- Good design
- A little small
- 20 Liters
- Lightweight
- Adjustable straps
The Carson Pass is one of the best multi-use backpacks Columbia offers. Parents to infants will fall in love immediately. Featuring 14 total pockets, there's enough space for absolutely everything. Columbia has thought of it all, from the pacifier pocket, in the main compartment, to the ultra-safe, easy clean liner. Don't worry about spills ever again. Not to mention Columbia offers Microban protection which inhibits bacteria from growing, thus protecting your child! Also featured is a bottle pocket, with a reflective liner, to insulate your bottle. There are 2 smaller exterior zipper pockets and 2 mesh pockets for small items. In addition to this already fantastic backpack, you're getting a padded changing mat, featuring an easy wipe surface and pockets with the aforementioned Microban protection! Let's move on to the ergonomics, often overlooked in backpacks is the straps. Not with the Carson Pass, with padded back, and straps with breathable mesh makes sweaty shoulder stains a thing of the past!
- Radiant barrier keeps bottles warm
- Wipe clean changing mat
- Mesh can rip if snagged
- Leak proof lining
- Padded back
- Breathable mesh
Columbia
Don't let the Mazama's smaller size fool you. Simple, but well-designed for everyday items. It features 25 liters of storage for plenty of space. This backpack is big enough to haul around your daily items and haul up to a 15" laptop! Furthermore, it has foam-padded shoulder straps for your comfort. Two water bottle holder pockets, high-quality stitching throughout the backpack, and excellent zippers with a reflective surface. A simple safety precaution and we like it. If you're looking for a lightweight, no-frills Columbia backpack, you may have just found it!
- Reflective zipper for safety
- Laptop has padded storage
- Adequate storage space
- Zippers aren't durable
- 25 Liters
- Laptop sleeve for 15" laptop
- Front accessory pocket
History of Columbia Backpacks
Columbia has been producing high-quality outdoor gear since 1938, and their backpacks are no exception. Over the years, Columbia has become known for producing backpacks that are durable, functional, and designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Here’s a brief history of Columbia backpacks:
In the 1970s, Columbia introduced their first line of backpacks, which were designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts. These backpacks were made from durable materials such as nylon and featured padded straps and back panels for comfort. They were also designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities.
In the 1980s, Columbia expanded their backpack line to include backpacks for school and travel. These backpacks were made from durable materials such as polyester and featured multiple pockets and compartments for organization. They also often featured padded straps and a laptop sleeve, making them ideal for students and business travelers.
In the 1990s, Columbia continued to innovate with their backpack designs, introducing features such as hydration systems and reflective detailing for visibility at night. They also continued to improve the durability and quality of their backpacks, making them even more reliable and long-lasting.
Today, Columbia offers a wide range of backpacks for different purposes, from hiking and travel to school and everyday use. They continue to use high-quality materials and innovative designs to create backpacks that meet the needs of their customers, whether they are exploring the great outdoors or simply commuting to work. With a long history of producing durable and functional backpacks, Columbia is a trusted brand for anyone in need of a reliable backpack.
Columbia Backpacks vs. Other brands
When it comes to choosing a backpack, there are many brands to choose from. So how do Columbia backpacks compare to other brands? Here are some key factors to consider:
- Quality: One of the biggest factors to consider when choosing a backpack is the quality of the materials and construction. Columbia backpacks are known for their high-quality materials, such as nylon and polyester, and durable construction. Other brands may use lower-quality materials that may not hold up as well over time.
- Functionality: Another important factor to consider is the functionality of the backpack. Columbia backpacks are designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, with features such as hydration systems and multiple pockets and compartments for organization. Other brands may not have the same level of functionality and may not be as well-suited for outdoor activities.
- Design: The design of the backpack is also important, as it affects both the aesthetics and the functionality of the backpack. Columbia backpacks are known for their practical and functional designs, but they also come in a variety of styles and colors to suit different preferences. Other brands may focus more on style than functionality, which may not be ideal for those who need a backpack for outdoor activities.
- Price: Finally, the price of the backpack is an important consideration. Columbia backpacks are priced competitively with other outdoor brands, but they may be more expensive than some lower-quality brands. However, the higher price tag is often justified by the higher quality and functionality of the backpack.
Overall, Columbia backpacks are a great choice for anyone in need of a durable, functional backpack for outdoor activities or everyday use. While they may be more expensive than some lower-quality brands, the higher quality and functionality make them a worthwhile investment for anyone who values reliability and performance in a backpack.
