This Fold-Up Backpack Is Your New Secret Weapon for Traveling Lighter

This clever backpack brings new meaning to packing light.

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Optimizing space is essential to successful packing. When done correctly, it helps avoid the headache of overweight luggage fees and dealing with TSA.  Nowadays, there are plenty of ways to cut down on overpacking, from packing cubes to multi-use toiletry bags. For the ultimate travel solution, try this Paravel Fold-Up backpack, an ultra-lightweight, sustainable and foldable storage option for any type of trip. 

At first glance, the backpack looks pretty standard. However, it actually holds a ton of cool features that prove it to be a must-have for vacations, gym trips and daily commutes alike. It even makes the perfect travel giftfor a friend or yourself.

What is the Paravel Fold-Up Backpack? 

Paravel Backpack folded upvia merchant

Paravel specializes in durable and chic luggage that can withstand travel by wind, land or sea. Out of its entire collection, the Fold-Up Backpack is one of the more lowkey and versatile pieces. It’s super lightweight, weighing just over half a pound when empty.  

When it’s unfolded and ready for action, the Paravel backpack measures about 13 inches wide and 16 inches in length. But for a more pack-and-go option, the backpack folds to a completely flat, compact size to stash in a bigger suitcase. When folded, it measures just over six inches at its longest. (A mini size measures 12 inches tall unfolded and 5 inches folded.) But don’t worry about it expanding—a durable zipper helps it maintain its size as a palm-sized pouch.  

The outside is made of water-resistant Negative Nylon, a material that’s as sustainable as it is durable. The fabric also has the stamp of approval from the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and Global Recycled Standard initiatives. Each backpack is made from 15 upcycled plastic bottles for an eco-friendly edge and the zippers are also made from recycled materials. Making eco-friendly luggage swaps is an easy way to be a more sustainable traveler

A main pocket stores everything from clothes to books, while a smaller pocket holds smaller, easier-to-reach items like a wallet or pens. There’s also a hidden interior pocket for even safer storage. Choose from six colors to match any personal style.

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How to use the Paravel Fold-Up Backpack 

Whether you use it as a personal item or for day-to-day activities, the Paravel backpack is a nifty travel buddy. Use it in just about any weather condition thanks to the weather-resistant Negative Nylon. It can also be used to store wet clothes after a beach day without worrying about ruining the fabric.  

Fit a 15-inch laptop inside, a change of clothes, camping gear or any other essentials with ease. The mini- and regular-size backpacks have plenty of room for your belongings. The adjustable straps provide a more comfortable fit and you could even attach it to a suitcase handle with the trolley band. No back pain! 

When not in use or if you just want to maximize on a bigger bag, fold the backpack into its zippered pouch. There’s also an option to add monogram embroidery, making the Paravel backpack a thoughtful personalized gift.  

The best reviews 

It may look like a standard travel backpack, but the foldable Paravel backpack is a must-have for any trip of any length. Just take a look at these real-life user reviews.

“It folds up so it doesn’t take up much space in my suitcase and I have to option to use the backpack on my trip,” writes Faequa K. “The days that I don’t need it or the days I’m traveling, I don’t feel like I’m lugging around a lot. It’s very spacious and the material feels sturdy.” 

Five-star purchaser Ngozi O. was “shocked” by how much this backpack could hold and appreciated the trolley band. “The front pocket was perfect for my Ziploc bag of toiletries. The inside back pocket fit flat items such as Kleenex, nail kit, and a few other small items,” they write. “The main opening is cavernous! I was able to fit two very full packing cubes, slippers, shower shoes, sneakers and my dental kit. I’d purchase this product again.” 

Verified purchaser Alyssa R. writes, “It is excellent quality. I couldn’t believe that a roomy backpack could zip up very easily into a pouch! It is very roomy with several zip-up compartments for extra storage. It looks very nice. I am going to Europe and was searching for a lightweight backpack. This is perfect!” 

Where to buy a Paravel Fold-Up Backpack 

 Paravel Backpack side viewvia merchant

The versatile, fold-up Paravel backpack is available directly from the Paravel website. The mini size costs $55 and the regular size costs $75. The regular size is also available on Amazon, automatically making it one of our favorites Amazon travel accessories. Shop your own Paravel packable backpack now to make the most your travel storage space.

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Andrea Carrillo
As Associate Shopping Editor at Reader's Digest, Andrea is a lifestyle writer covering all things e-commerce. She has covered streetwear, sustainability and culture for a variety of publications. When she's not on deadline, you can find her reading, collecting vintage fashion and furthering her goal of visiting every country in South America.