Why a sustainable bag or backpack

An average nylon or polyester backpack has a carbon footprint of 8 to 15 kg CO2 equivalent. Replace it with an RPET model and you save up to 70% compared with virgin plastic. Combine that with a long lifespan (3 to 5 years or more) and you have a high-impact gift with a low marginal cost per use.

Backpacks: our top models

PU-coated RPET 600D rolltop backpack 20L

Water-repellent PU coating over recycled RPET. Rolltop closure and 20L capacity. GRS certified. Ideal for commuting and office use. The perfect canvas for laser engraving or embroidery of your logo.

Karo RPET sports bag backpack 27L

A spacious sports bag backpack in 100% RPET. GRS certified. Ideal as a gift for a company sports club or as team sports merchandise. More capacity for training kit or day trips.

Harper recycled cotton canvas backpack

For GOTS fans and a classic look. Recycled cotton canvas with leather details, a laptop compartment and an internal organiser. Ideal for corporate and high-end gifts.

Bags

Tote bags

A classic tote bag in GOTS organic cotton or RPET. An affordable bulk gift for trade fairs and events. For a sustainable story, choose sturdy 240 g/m² cotton that lasts 5+ years.

Sports bags

RPET sports bags with a water bottle compartment and shoe compartment. A sustainable alternative to classic sports bags in virgin polyester.

Cool bags

RPET cool bags with an insulating lining replace disposable cool boxes. Ideal for festival season, day trips and company outings.

Carrier bags for trade fairs

Flat RPET carrier bags are a strong goodie bag alternative to plastic bags at trade fairs. Cardboard carrier bags made of FSC paper are a second option, but less reusable.

Materials you will come across

• RPET (600D and 300D): strong, water-repellent, light.
• GOTS organic cotton canvas: classic, natural, biodegradable.
• Recycled canvas: made from textile waste, robust.
• Hemp blends: strong, with a unique texture.
• Recycled leather: made from production waste, a premium look for details and handles.
• Ocean-bound plastic: plastic recovered from oceans or coastal areas, a strong story.

Printing and personalisation

• Embroidery: premium and durable, ideal for backpacks.
• Screen printing (water-based): bright, strong contrast, ideal for tote bags.
• DTF (direct to film): for small runs and photographic logos.
• Reflective embroidery: safety for commuting.

Measuring impact

An RPET backpack saves up to 70% CO2 compared with virgin polyester. Combine that with a lifespan of 5+ years and the cost per use is low. For larger projects we provide an LCA estimate including transport and packaging, ready for your sustainability report.

Frequently asked questions about sustainable bags and backpacks

Are RPET backpacks waterproof?

Most are water-repellent thanks to a PU coating on the outside. For fully waterproof, ideally choose a rolltop model with welded seams.

Which is better: an organic cotton tote or an RPET tote?

Organic cotton is biodegradable and pleasant to carry. RPET is stronger and has lower CO2 per unit produced. Choose organic cotton for companies with a textile story, and RPET for bulk orders for trade fairs.

What is the minimum order for a custom backpack?

For a fully custom design, from 500 units. For standard models with a logo, from 50 to 100 units.

Can you supply a backpack entirely in our house style?

Yes. For larger runs (500+) we work to your specifications with your own colour, custom fabric and personalised zips. For smaller runs we use existing models with logo printing.

Request your backpack quote

We are happy to discuss which model, material and technique suit your goal, budget and timeline. Get in touch for a sustainable backpack or bag quote.