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If you spend much time around middle or high school girls, you’ve probably heard of the VSCO girl style. Maybe you are reading this because you’re the mom of a VSCO girl.
The Kanken backpack is a VSCO girl favorite. It has been around since 1978 and has seen many trends come and go. Still, Kanken has maintained it’s classic boxy look through the years, but it’s having time in the spotlight right now.
The rustic style of the Kanken backpack makes it a favorite within the VSCO girl movement. The only problem is, it’s a bit pricey!
Are There Cheaper Backpacks Like Kanken?
After some searching, I found that these seem to be the best cheaper alternatives to Kanken backpacks:
- Most Comfortable Straps: Seventeen London
- Closest Kanken Dupe: Kalidi (See Kalidi casual backpack at Amazon.com)
- Best Value: Hot Style Bestie Backpack
Here is a quick comparison chart of the options:
What Are Kanken Backpacks?
Kanken is a model of backpack from the brand Fjallraven. Though the Kanken is stylish, it was actually designed for comfort. The Kanken has a straight back design in order to prevent back pain and injuries.
In addition, the Kanken backpack has a layer of cushion in order to protect from books or other things jabbing into the back of the user. It’s made from a durable lightweight material, making it great for students!
The Kanken has a stylish boxy look that holds its shape and the iconic Fjallraven circular logo.
What Are VSCO Girls?
VSCO girl most often refers to girls who wear a specific fashion trend most popular in teenagers. It’s named after the photo editing app, VSCO, but it’s now more of a fashion trend. The style is an easygoing one that resembles many throwback fashions.
Crop tops, scrunchies, oversized tees, and crocs are just a few VSCO girl staples. Dare I say it– VSCO girls often look like they shopped their mother’s highschool closets!
What Are the Types of Kanken Backpacks?
While the overall form of the Kanken remains the same, there are a variety of different colors and styles to help personalize your Kanken. Here are a few of the options:
- Classic Kanken
- Kanken Rainbow
- Re-Kanken
- Kanken Sling
- Kanken Art
- Kanken Mini
- Kanken Totepack
- Kanken Art Laptop
- Kanken No. 2
How Much Do Kanken Backpacks Cost?
These Kanken backpacks cost anywhere from $70- $115. The classic Kanken which we are comparing here typically sells for $80.
Are Kanken Backpacks Worth the Money?
It’s a great question! As a mom, I’m always willing to pay more if the product is durable and quality-made.
While Fjallraven does seem to create a quality product in the Kanken backpack, the appearance is what is most appealing to the VSCO girl. There seem to be several other great “boxy” backpacks similar to Kanken that are also quality made and will still make a fashion statement.
I’d likely try out some of these other backpacks like Kanken since they come with a much more reasonable price tag.
Backpack Like Kanken With Comfortable Straps
Like the Kanken, this backpack is designed with your comfort in mind. Unlike the Kanken, it has wide cushioned straps help to prevent shoulder pain. This Kanken lookalike has the boxy style that VSCO girls love!
- Wide cushioned straps
- Roomy compartments
- Durable
- 100% vegan
- Not strong enough for large loads
Backpack Similar to Kanken: Kalidi Backpack
This backpack is extremely similar to the Kanken in appearance. It even features a round logo with the Kalidi name. (See Kaliki casual backpack at Amazon.com)
- Variety of color options
- Durable zipper
- Spacious compartments
- Side pockets aren’t functional
Best Value Backpack Like Kanken: Hot Style Bestie Backpack
Of all the backpacks like Kanken, this one is the best value. It’s great for someone on a tight budget and doesn’t sacrifice the VSCO girl style.
- Variety of patterns and colors
- Reasonable price
- Internal water bottle pocket
- Lower quality straps
Are these Fake Kanken?
No, these aren’t fake Kanken backpacks or Kanken knock-offs. A fake Kanken would be a backpack that is made to look exactly like the Kanken backpack, complete with fake brand labels. True knock-offs are illegal.
These aren’t Kanken knock-offs, they’re just other brands of backpacks that look similar to Kanken.
Have You Tried Any of These Backpacks Like Kanken?
I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below! Have you tried any of these Kanken Alternatives? Were they any good?
Katelyn
Monday 2nd of August 2021
The Fancy forest Kalidi one IS a knock off of the Kanken. OBVIOUSLY. The logo is sooo similar it is OBVIOUS they were trying to copy without getting caught. No hate😁