Best Backpacks for Exploring Shanghai Like a Local

Shanghai is a city of contrasts—where futuristic skyscrapers stand beside historic shikumen lanes, and bustling markets coexist with serene gardens. To truly experience the city like a local, you need the right gear, and a reliable backpack is essential. Whether you're navigating the metro, biking through the French Concession, or hopping between street food stalls, the right bag can make all the difference. Here’s a curated list of the best backpacks for exploring Shanghai, blending functionality, style, and durability.

Why the Right Backpack Matters in Shanghai

Shanghai’s dynamic urban landscape demands a backpack that’s versatile enough for different activities—from sightseeing to café hopping. Locals favor bags that are:

• Lightweight yet spacious – Enough for daily essentials without weighing you down.
• Secure and anti-theft – Pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded areas like Nanjing Road.
• Weather-resistant – Shanghai’s humidity and sudden rain showers require water-resistant materials.
• Stylish but low-key – Flashy tourist backpacks scream "outsider." Opt for sleek designs that blend in.

Top Backpack Picks for Shanghai Adventures

1. The Everyday Explorer: Aer Travel Pack 3

Best for: Urban commuters and digital nomads

Shanghai’s work-hard, play-hard culture means you might need a bag that transitions from coworking spaces in Jing’an to rooftop bars in the Bund. The Aer Travel Pack 3 is a favorite for its:

• Sleek, minimalist design – Fits right in with Shanghai’s cosmopolitan vibe.
• Laptop compartment – Fits up to a 16-inch laptop, perfect for remote workers.
• Expandable storage – From 35L to 42L, ideal for day trips to Zhujiajiao Water Town.

Local tip: Use the hidden pockets for your metro card and small change—you’ll need them for the city’s efficient but busy subway system.

2. The Anti-Theft Champion: Pacsafe Venturesafe X25

Best for: Crowded markets and tourist hotspots

Areas like Yuyuan Garden and Tianzifang get packed, making them prime spots for pickpockets. The Pacsafe Venturesafe X25 offers:

• RFID-blocking pockets – Protect your credit cards and passport.
• Slash-proof straps – Deters thieves from cutting your bag in crowds.
• Compact but roomy – Fits a water bottle, umbrella, and souvenirs from the Old Street.

Local tip: Pair this with a crossbody money belt for extra security when bargaining at the fake markets.

3. The Stylish Minimalist: Bellroy Classic Backpack

Best for: Café crawls and art district strolls

Shanghai’s coffee scene is booming, and neighborhoods like Xintiandi and West Bund are full of Instagram-worthy spots. The Bellroy Classic Backpack is a chic choice for:

• Premium recycled materials – Eco-conscious and durable.
• Discreet organization – Quick-access pockets for your phone and wallet.
• Sleek silhouette – Looks great whether you’re at a speakeasy or a museum.

Local tip: Carry a foldable tote inside—many boutique cafés charge extra for takeaway bags.

4. The Adventure-Ready: Osprey Daylite Plus

*Best for: Hiking Lujiazui’s skywalks or cycling Pudong**

For active explorers, the Osprey Daylite Plus is a lightweight yet rugged option:

• Breathable back panel – A lifesaver in Shanghai’s humid summers.
• Hydration reservoir compatible – Stay hydrated while biking along the Huangpu River.
• Daisy-chain loops – Attach a jacket or shopping finds from Dongtai Road Antique Market.

Local tip: Rent a Mobike (Shanghai’s bike-sharing system) and use this bag for a hassle-free ride.

5. The Budget-Friendly Pick: Decathlon Quechua NH500

Best for: Students and budget travelers

Shanghai can be expensive, but the Decathlon Quechua NH500 delivers quality without breaking the bank:

• Water-resistant and lightweight – Handles sudden downpours.
• 10-year warranty – Great for long-term travelers or expats.
• Multiple compartments – Keeps your wet umbrella separate from your tech.

Local tip: Decathlon stores are all over Shanghai—pick one up upon arrival if you’re luggage-light.

Features to Prioritize for Shanghai

Security

• Lockable zippers or hidden compartments deter thieves in busy areas like People’s Square.
• Avoid backpacks with external pockets—they’re easy targets.

Weather Adaptability

• Look for quick-drying fabrics (Shanghai’s summer humidity is no joke).
• A built-in rain cover is a plus—umbrellas are sold everywhere, but they’re easy to forget.

Local Aesthetic

• Neutral colors (black, gray, navy) blend in better than bright hiking backpacks.
• Compact designs work best in cramped metro cars and tiny noodle shops.

Final Packing Tips for Shanghai

• Essentials to carry daily:

  • Portable charger (outlets are scarce in older cafés).
  • Packable shopping bag (plastic bags cost extra).
  • Wet wipes (street food can get messy).
  • A reusable water bottle—tap water isn’t drinkable, but refill stations are common.

• What to leave behind:

  • Bulky guidebooks (use apps like SmartShanghai instead).
  • Heavy jackets (unless it’s winter—layering is key).

Shanghai rewards those who travel light and smart. With the right backpack, you’ll navigate the city like a seasoned local—whether you’re sipping boba on Wukang Road or bartering for silk scarves on South Bund Fabric Market.