For leisure and travel, you choose a backpack based on volume, comfort and weather resistance. A 15 to 25 litre daypack is enough for school, a festival or a day trip, while for weekend breaks or sport you are better off with 25 to 50 litres. Look out for padded shoulder straps, a sturdy fabric (at least 300D polyester) and preferably water-repellent material.

A leisure backpack is used often and intensively, which makes it a particularly valuable personalised gift. Whether it is a festival backpack, a sporty daypack or a waterproof roll-top for cyclists: every model creates daily moments of contact with your brand. Below, we explain how to make the right choice and which models we recommend.

What is the difference between a leisure backpack and a business backpack?

A leisure backpack is built for comfort, durability and flexible use on the go, while a business backpack is all about laptop protection, a sleek look and organising your work essentials. Leisure backpacks more often have a sporty look, spacious main compartments and weather-resistant materials.

The main differences at a glance:

• Leisure backpacks focus on volume and comfort, business models on protecting laptops and documents
• Leisure models often use water-repellent or reflective fabrics for outdoor use
• Business backpacks have a more neutral, sleeker look
• Leisure backpacks are usually more affordable, making them ideal for larger runs

Looking for a backpack for the office, commuting or business travel? Then take a look at our page on business and laptop backpacks.

What volume do you need for a leisure backpack?

The ideal volume depends on how it will be used: 15 to 20 litres for a daypack, 20 to 30 litres for school, festivals or sport, and 30 to 50 litres for weekend breaks or as a combined sports and travel bag. The longer you are on the move, the more litres you need.

A handy overview by use:

• 15 to 20 litres: everyday trips, festivals, a short day out
• 20 to 30 litres: school, the gym, a day out with extra kit
• 30 to 50 litres: weekend breaks, sport with a shoe compartment, multi-purpose use

Torn between two sizes? Go for the larger volume. A backpack that is not completely full is still comfortable to carry, whereas one that is too small quickly becomes limiting.

Which leisure backpacks does Maximum Image recommend?

We have selected a few favourites from our wide range that are perfect for leisure, sport and travel. Every model can be personalised with your logo and suits a range of budgets.

Clique 2.0 Combi Bag (51 litres)

A truly multi-functional bag that you can carry as a backpack or a shoulder bag. With a 51 litre volume, an insulated side pocket for cold drinks, a ventilated shoe and towel compartment and reflective details, this is the ideal choice for sport, weekend breaks and festivals. The chest strap and D-rings provide extra stability on the go. Dimensions: 54x28x34 cm.

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Perfect for: sports clubs, festivals, weekend breaks. Recommended price: from €45.55 excl. VAT.

Craft Ability Shoe Backpack (26 litres)

A sporty team backpack with a separate shoe compartment at the bottom, ideal for sports clubs and active users. The padded, adjustable shoulder straps ensure comfort, even when fully loaded. Available in several colours such as black, navy and cobalt.

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Perfect for: sports clubs, team kit, the gym. Recommended price: from €36 excl. VAT.

Reflective roll-top backpack (26x13x50 cm)

A stylish backpack made of reflective material that increases visibility in the dark, perfect for commuters and cyclists. The roll-top closure with buckle keeps your belongings dry and the bag closed. An affordable choice for larger runs.

Perfect for: commuting, cycling, outdoors. Recommended price: from €14.84 excl. VAT.

Clique Basic Backpack

A budget-friendly backpack in sturdy 600D polyester, ideal as a giveaway at events, trade fairs or festivals. Simple, robust and perfect for personalising with your logo in large quantities.

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Perfect for: giveaways, events, festivals. Recommended price: from €8.73 excl. VAT.

How do you personalise a leisure backpack?

A leisure backpack is usually personalised with a printed or embroidered logo on the front or the flaps. The choice of technique depends on the material, the number of colours in your logo and the look you want. At Maximum Image, you always get tailored advice on the best technique.

The most common personalisation techniques for backpacks:

• Transfer printing: suitable for colourful logos and small to medium runs
• Screen-printed transfer: cost-effective for larger quantities with a limited number of colours
• Embroidery: a premium look, ideal for a subtle and durable logo
• Doming or label: for a refined, high-quality finish

Ideally, supply your logo as a vector file (.ai, .eps or .pdf) for the sharpest result. Only have a jpeg or png? Then make sure it is at least 300 DPI.

What is the minimum quantity for printed backpacks?

Stock backpacks can often be personalised from small quantities, depending on the chosen model and technique. For a fully custom-designed backpack, the minimum order quantities are considerably higher and the lead time is usually 8 to 12 weeks.

A few things to bear in mind:

• Printing usually involves a fixed set-up cost, which weighs more heavily per item on small quantities
• The larger the run, the lower the price per backpack
• Custom backpacks offer complete freedom in colour, shape and features, but require longer lead times
• Plan well ahead for events, festivals or seasonal campaigns

How Maximum Image helps you choose a leisure backpack

We help you choose the right backpack for your target audience, budget and use. With our wide range and years of experience, we make sure your backpack does not disappear into a cupboard but is worn and seen every day.

What we take care of for you:

• Personal advice on model, volume and material within your budget
• A no-obligation quote within 24 hours of your request
• Help optimising your logo for printing or embroidery
• A free digital proof for approval
• Sustainable options made from recycled materials

Would you like to know which backpack best suits your project? Get in touch with us for a no-obligation chat about your wishes and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which backpack is best for a festival?

For festivals, choose a compact 15 to 25 litre backpack that is comfortable to wear and preferably water-repellent. A model with a safe, hidden pocket for your phone and wallet is a big plus in busy crowds. Reflective details help you stand out in the evening.

Are leisure backpacks waterproof?

Not every leisure backpack is fully waterproof, but many models are water-repellent thanks to a PU coating or a roll-top closure. For cyclists and outdoor use, we recommend a roll-top model or a specifically waterproof backpack. Feel free to ask us about the water resistance of a specific model.

Can I have a backpack with a shoe compartment printed?

Yes, sports backpacks with a separate shoe compartment are perfect for personalising with your logo. The shoe compartment is usually at the bottom or side and does not affect the print area on the front. This type of backpack is very popular with sports clubs and teams.

What is the best way to care for a printed backpack?

Clean a printed backpack preferably with a damp cloth and mild soap rather than in the washing machine. Avoid the tumble dryer and harsh cleaning products, as they can damage the print. Then let the backpack air-dry to keep its shape and logo looking good.

What is the difference between 300D and 600D polyester?

The D value (denier) indicates the thickness and strength of the fibre: the higher the number, the more robust and hard-wearing the fabric. 300D polyester is light and suitable for everyday use, while 600D is sturdier and better able to withstand intensive use. For sports and travel backpacks, 600D is usually the better choice.

Can you design a fully custom leisure backpack?

Yes, in addition to our stock range, we also design fully custom backpacks in your colours and shape, with specific features. Please bear in mind that minimum order quantities are higher and the lead time is at least 8 to 12 weeks. Ask us about the possibilities and a price indication.

Which backpack is suitable as a giveaway at a trade fair?

For giveaways at trade fairs or events, choose an affordable and simple model in sturdy polyester, such as a basic backpack. With larger quantities the price per item drops considerably, so you create lots of visibility on a limited budget. An eye-catching logo print ensures maximum brand recognition.

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• Anti-theft backpack
• Sports backpack for clubs and teams
• Sustainable backpack made from recycled material
• Affordable backpack as a giveaway
• Cabin baggage backpack for flights