Fjallraven kranken

[user890089]

DD has asked for one for her birthday. Are they worth it?

Absolutely depends on what she's using it for.

Hauling a laptop, books and bottle of water from car to class - great.
Hauling gear in a month long trip - not so much.

The shoulder straps on the normal Kanken are pretty thin, not a lot of padding.

They do a laptop version with padded straps, that helps a little.

Other than that though, you get what at you see really. Cute colours and I think timelessly fashionable. I wouldn't take on hiking or on holiday, but as an everyday sort of gym bag or class bag, great. Plus, Fjallraven, it'll likely last a long long time.

Alternative suggestion though -
Donut Macaroon

Are they still 'in'? They're very much not here but I know it's so school / area specific.

Do not get a light coloured one as they are very hard to clean. You’re not supposed to stick them in the washing machine. DD had one about 3-4 years ago, has a Longchamps bag now that carries most stuff. Expect she will take it to uni this year. I have Roka backpacks I take to work which are good - the roll top ones that fit a laptop with a little built in padding.

I had one to carry my work essentials to and from the office.. laptop, stationery, toiletries etc. They don't have a huge capacity and the straps are not padded at all. If you have a heavy load in the bag, the straps can cut into your shoulders and can be uncomfortable. They look good and are very popular, but I wouldn't buy one again.

I use one as a kit bag for work (midwife) and I love it

Yes they're great and were very popular a few years ago

My DD had one in year 7 as did lots of girls in all sorts of colours

Yes. Y13 dd has a dark red one for school that I was very reluctant to buy at the time - because £££ compared to other options, and I was concerned about the very thin and uncomfortable-looking straps. However it's still going strong nearly 5 years later. Don't know whether they're as fashionable as they were (I obvs have no idea!) but it's been well worth it for the lack of schoolbag angst ever since.

I have a pink one, which goes in the machine on a delicates wash at 30 c and it comes up like new.

My DD begged us for one when she was 15…. We were dubious but gave in…. She’s 26 now and it has been used to death… we are getting her a new one for her birthday.

lol
DD got one at 12/13 and is 21 now. I'm sick of the sight of it - still in regular use