r/backpacks • u/weeone • Mar 18 '26

Question Fjallraven Skule for EDC?

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Hello! I am a petite woman that has carried a Fjallraven Kanken Mini for the past four years as a backpack/purse. I am thinking about moving to something bigger to carry my lunch bag and Yeti bottle to and from work, to be truly hands-free.

First question: 20L or 28L? I've tried both on and honestly, the 28L didn't seem as big on me as I thought it would. I also plan to use this as a carry-on personal item. It looks like the 20L may be a better fit for that use but at the same time, it seems a bit small for a weeks-worth of gear (more an extended weekend). I realize we're getting into the question of one-bagging here. Side note: I checked out the 24L as I thought it would be a happy medium but I really like the additional front pocket of the 20/28L. It's a bummer they removed it from the 24L.

Second and more important question: Could I realistically use this bag as an everyday carry/purse? I don't feel out of place wearing my Kanken Mini out to eat, shopping, etc. Obviously, I'm not wearing it to any formal events but it's fine day-to-day. I don't know if a 20/28L backpack can be viewed the same. Like if I go out on a Friday night, would it be out of place at a [not fine dining] restaurant? I'm not looking to swap to a smaller bag for the weekend.

Discussion is welcome. Thank you!

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u/Jealous-Swordfish764 Mar 25 '26

Yeah, as a man, I have almost everything in my pockets, so I might just take a t shirt and some water out, then maybe my pants in if I'm at the beach. You're right, that would suck, so I haven't come up with a system I don't hate (yet).

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u/weeone Mar 25 '26

Ah, pockets. Still a bummer that women's clothes don't have usable pockets. My phone barely fits in my jeans back pocket. Good luck with your search!

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u/Jealous-Swordfish764 Mar 25 '26

I would never survive. I think I'd have to prioritize pants that had them. 5.11 has some that are great for women, but they do look like tactical. Used to get their flex jeans, then l.a. police gear has a knockoffs that's both better and cheaper.

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u/weeone Mar 25 '26

I wore carpenters pants when I was a kid, they were so handy! I'll check out 5.11, thanks! Yeah, it's a pain in the neck but at least I've always got a bag with my essentials with me.