The Fjällräven Kånken 17″ Laptop Pack Review: A Computer Bag Packed With History

OK, I finally get the hype. Ever since I was a kid, I have seen retro-style Fjällräven backpacks everywhere. From classrooms and coffee shops to international airports, I always saw the “hip kids” rocking these colorful cubic packs from the famous Swedish company.

I was surprised to learn that the iconic Kånken has been around since its genesis in 1978, with very little change to the overall aesthetic of the bag. Seeing as that was 45 years ago, it is safe to assume that they are doing something right over in Örnsköldsvik.

I was originally skeptical of the Kånken — how could such a small rucksack that looks more stylish than functional be a good laptop backpack? Boy, was I wrong.

Since its inception, this backpack was actually designed to be more functional than fashionable: The rigid cube shape was meant to help schoolchildren’s posture and alleviate the shoulder stress that more common shoulder bags offered at the time.

By the 2000s, the Kånken Laptop backpack was released to accommodate a changing market that came with advancements in technology as more folks purchased laptops. The 17-inch model is what I dove straight into testing over the past 3 months.

This backpack came with me on domestic flights, trips to the office, and strolls to my local coffee shop. Considering its rich history, this backpack has aged well — acting as both a spacious piece of luggage and a durable companion. 

In short: The Fjällräven Kånken 17” Laptop Pack soars in any classroom or travel environment thanks to its modular storage capacity, timeless style, and laptop protection factor. Available in an array of color options, this backpack is ideal for students or working professionals needing plenty of space for their gear without having to completely break the bank.

Check out GearJunkie’s Best Laptop Backpacks Buyer’s Guide to see how the Fjällräven Kånken compares to the rest of the options available today.

Fjällräven Kånken 17″ Laptop Pack: Review

First Impressions — No Shortage of Personality

Available in 12 earthy color options and three different sizes, there’s a Fjällräven Kånken Laptop backpack for everyone. The iconic Swedish company has been perfecting its Kånken backpacks for almost 50 years, so the pressure was definitely on when I began testing this pack. For context, I tested the 17” model in Graphite, a smoky gray hue. 

When I first used this laptop backpack, it was for a domestic trip to the East Coast of the U.S., so what better place to test out a backpack than an airport and plane? The first aspect I noted was the front panel loading style on this backpack. This made for a super-streamlined packing process as I was able to modularly organize my necessities.

Even though the Kånken appears somewhat small, it was capable of fitting my MacBook Pro, a keyboard, a large novel, headphones, a camera, and its accessories. At airport security, you typically need to unload some of these items, so being able to open the bag completely simplifies the usually frustrating process.

An Iconic Look With Added Protection

At first glance, the Fjällräven Kånken has an iconic look. The cubic-shaped bag has hidden zippers and a retro-outdoorsy aesthetic. Placed in the center of the backpack is Fjällräven’s staple branding, the red fox logo. There aren’t any extra straps, buckles, or attachments. This look is pretty universal in most of the company’s backpacks.

The outer material is constructed with Vinylon F, a synthetic blend made in-house by Fjällräven. I would describe it as a waxy canvas-like textile. It is stiff, but I noticed that it did soften a bit overtime without compromising durability.

In terms of water resistance, the Vinylon F fibers actually constrict when wet, so they repel water without an extra chemical coating. However, make note that this laptop backpack is not waterproof and is only meant to last during a light shower or snow. 

While this material is sturdy, it does scuff pretty easily. Just after a few uses, I noticed that my Kånken had some creases and white marks that I couldn’t brush out. However, folks who prefer a more “vintage” look to their apparel, may appreciate that the fabric has a more rugged appearance after some use. 

When you want to store your Kånken or throw it in an overhead bin on a flight, you can tighten the straps and attach the loose ends to where the straps meet at the shoulders. You don’t want the free-hanging straps to snag or get ripped off accidentally.

As far as zippers go, we had no issues with the YKK #5’s Fjällräven used on the Kånken. Despite months of use, the zippers and pulls remained strong and easily opened and closed.

Straight Backs Are Happy Backs!

Unlike the original Kånken model, the laptop version has included padded straps. When packed lightly, this backpack is pretty comfortable, but because the straps are thinner, we wouldn’t recommend it for all-day heavily packed use. Heavy items like books and binders may dig into your collarbones when carried.

Where the Kånken does soar in comfort is its resting position when worn. I found that it sat just right at the spot below my shoulders and didn’t jostle around much at all, even when walking quickly between airport connections. The rigid, boxy shape of this pack certainly upholds Fjällräven’s “Straight backs are happy backs!” branding. 

Better yet, the Kånken’s foam insert is removable, so you can use it as a seat pad during connections between flights or chilling on your university’s lawn. You could always sit on a regular backpack, but because the foam is removable, you don’t need to unpack the bag or risk getting it dirty. 

When you don’t feel like wearing the Kånken on your back, simply use the included top handles to carry it like a briefcase or grocery bag. These top handles made the backpack effortless to maneuver around at the airport or jumping between meetings at the office. My back muscles were surely grateful for them! 

Overall, when packed lightly, the Kånken is a superb, comfortable backpack option for shorter office commutes through the city. Just keep in mind that the heavier you pack it, the less pleasant it will be to haul around since the shoulder straps are thinner. 

Organization for Daily Work

The Fjällräven Kånken has a front panel loading system, meaning you don’t have to fumble with a bunch of zippers and blindly dig around like you’re on a mapless treasure hunt. Rather, the entire backpack opens wide so you can easily see and organize its contents.

This particular design choice makes packing and unpacking pretty seamless. In fact, because of this backpack, I wish all packs were front panel loading style. Truly, I can’t go back to the “black hole” prevalent in top-loading backpacks. 

When packing the Kånken, I was able to fit much more than expected, as I could puzzle each item together within the main compartment. Easy loading and unloading are major pluses, especially for folks who are constantly on the go or using their backpacks in traveling environments. 

Now, what this backpack does lack is pocket options. There is only one zippered exterior pocket located just below the logo. It is perfect for keys, chargers, and your phone, but it does stick out a bit when packed.

It can also be a pain to access when twisting the backpack around when on, as the zipper has a lip of fabric over it. The Kånken also has two side exterior sleeve pockets for water bottles or a small umbrella. We recommend using a slender bottle with these as they aren’t roomy enough to accommodate a full-size (32-ounce) Hydro Flask or Stanley. 

There is an inner sleeve where the foam insert sits. This can be used just for the removable foam or for a Kindle or tablet. A small zippered pocket, located across from this sleeve, is ideal for securing items such as passports, cash, or your wallet. I appreciated this pocket for its ability to hold an SD card case and small hard drive, as these are items I can’t afford to lose due to their priceless data.

Laptop Protection

Where the Fjällräven Kånken Laptop backpack differs from the regular ol’ Kånken is the separate, zippered laptop compartment located on the back panel. Rather than having to keep your computer with all of your other packed goods, it can sit in its own special place away from anything that might scratch or damage it. This compartment is accessed from the top of the pack via a zippered opening.

The padding on this compartment could definitely be thicker, but it did the trick protecting my smaller 13-inch MacBook Pro. However, I wanted to truly test out how well the Kånken could keep a computer safe in the event of a fall or spill, so I stuck a non-functioning, older laptop in there and gave her a good toss.

The computer survived, but I do have to say the thunk was a bit loud, so maybe err on the side of caution when swinging this puppy around. If the laptop compartment had some sort of suspension or Velcro to help keep a computer elevated, I think that would certainly help its case.

What I love about the Kånken’s laptop compartment is the silky soft liner it is constructed with. This prevents any scratches on your tech and also makes for a pleasant experience when you are unpacking this pocket. This textile is crucial if you have a tablet or e-reader in there that doesn’t have a protective case. 

Bonus Points

The overall style of this bag is one of the most iconic and timeless in the industry. Typically, laptop backpacks are only available in plain colors like black or gray, but Fjällräven truly stands out with its extensive color options available for the Kånken’s Laptop version.

From muted earth tones to more vibrant hues, there is a Kånken color for everyone. I admire the brand’s sustainability and improvement of the original Kånken design, rather than shuffling through different products every year. 

Speaking of sustainability, I also can’t help but shout out Fjällräven for its eco-friendly business practices and mission to lessen its environmental footprint. When browsing the website, I noticed that the “Sustainability” tab is directly next to the clothing and backpack sections. The brand recognizes that its mission to better the planet is just as important as selling its products, an attribute I seriously admire about the brand. 

Fjällräven uses sustainable and ethical methods through naturally derived textiles, recycled materials, and membership through the Fair Labor Association (FLA), which focuses on workers’ rights and improving conditions. The Kånken specifically uses the aforementioned Vinylon F fabric that is meant to last a lifetime thanks to its durability and water resistance. 

Fjällräven Kånken 17″ Laptop Pack: Conclusion

As I found out through testing this backpack, there are a multitude of reasons the Fjällräven Kånken Laptop version has become a timeless piece of luggage for people all over the world of different genders and ages. It has a classic, old-school look without sacrificing any of the technical attributes needed in a sturdy computer bag. 

Folks who need a laptop backpack for school, travel, or work should certainly consider the Kånken for its separate laptop pocket, open-panel loading system, and ample amount of storage space. The cubic style shape is conducive to accessories like packing cubes and hard goods like books or a camera case.

Folks who need increased padding or multifaceted organizational systems in a backpack might want to consider a different product since this one simply just opens up like a small suitcase.

If you tend to carry a heavier packout on the way to school or work, the shoulder straps on the Kånken may not be robust enough for you. However, if you want a pack ideal for a weeklong trip to Europe or a summer hike in your favorite national park, definitely consider this bag for its timeless aesthetic and dual carry modes. Since the Kånken is so stylish, I found that it went with most of my winter and spring outfits, if that matters to you. 

The Fjällräven Kånken Laptop in the 17-inch model is available from Fjällräven and REI for $125. The smaller versions in 13- and 15-inch sizes retail for $113 and $120 if you have a more compact computer or tablet. Fjällräven also has extra accessories available for purchase to add to your Kånken, like rain covers, gear bags, chest straps, and more.  

In conclusion, the Fjällräven Kånken Laptop backpack is a fantastic carry option for folks needing a little more oomph than what the original Kånken can offer. With a separate laptop compartment, seating pad and option to customize its overall look and functionality, the Kånken Laptop version is great for workers and students on the go both internationally and domestically.