Anne Selects A Backpack

A beautifully designed backpack that finally gets everything right: Smart features, timeless shape, and comfort that lasts all day.

Author

Anne Benissan
September 04, 2025

THE BEST BACKPACK

The PROBLEM

Most backpacks are frustrating by design. They lack structure, feel uncomfortable, and offer little functional organization. Opening one can feel like peering into a deep, shapeless well, where everything sinks to the bottom. Zippers are often too small, access is awkward, and there’s rarely a pocket where you need it.

Yet the backpack remains the ultimate travel companion—capable of carrying a laptop, books, a water bottle, travel accessories, and essentials like your passport and air tickets.

It just needs to be better designed.

The PICK

The Hanover 2 by Lo & Sons is the backpack I didn’t know I needed—until I used it. It's so smartly designed that it continues to impress me, even years later. I love it so much, I’ve gifted it to my children and nephews, and they all use it daily.
It’s a rare find that works just as well for students as it does for adults—a gift that’s both beautiful and genuinely useful.

What makes it stand out:

  • Keeps its shape and stands upright on its own.

  • Extra-long zippers make every pocket easily accessible.

  • Includes a removable, luxurious insert that adds structure and can be taken out when you want a roomier, more open bag.

Clever pockets, smartly placed:

  • A discreet top pocket perfect for AirPods or your phone.

  • Two side pockets, including one with a key ribbon you can reach without removing the backpack.

  • A separate laptop compartment, a padded pocket for glasses, space for a Kindle or book, and a dedicated slot for your charger.

I especially love the padded, adjustable straps—they keep the backpack stable and comfortable, even when it’s full, without digging into your shoulders.

The quality of fabrication is exceptional, from the stitching to the materials.
My own Hanover 2 is over five years old, has traveled extensively, touched every floor imaginable, and still looks impeccable.

Why Not Hanover 2 Deluxe?

The Deluxe version is slightly larger and differently organized, but not in ways that worked for me. It loses the two side pockets, which I find especially useful for everyday access.

For a female frame, the Deluxe feels bulky and less balanced. In my experience, the original Hanover 2 strikes the perfect balance between structure, size, and smart function.

Behind the Pick

Lo & Sons is a family-owned company I’ve followed since discovering them six years ago—and they’ve earned my trust.

Their attention to detail is remarkable. Mrs. Lo, the founder, designs with real life in mind—creating solutions that are both elegant and practical, especially for women on the move.

What sets them apart is their responsiveness. Their customer support is exceptional, and they truly listen to feedback, constantly iterating and improving their collections based on real user experience.

It’s design that evolves—and that makes all the difference.

TAKEAWAY

The right backpack makes everyday movement easier, and this one works. It’s comfortable, durable, and smart in every detail.

After years of use, I wouldn’t trade it for anything else.

Hanover 2 in Black

A $238 Backpack that is often on sale as low as 40% off. An excellent value for a long-lasting bag.

Hanover comes in 3 different colors

I have it in Kaki, but this color no longer exists.

WHAT IS NEXT?

I welcome your feedback and ideas—I want this newsletter to be a conversation.

Is there anything you would like me to research? Hit reply and let me know.

IMPORTANT NOTE

To keep Anne Selects free, I may join affiliate programs that offer a small commission when you purchase through the links I share. That said, my selections are always based on independent research and personal experience, never paid placement. And I will let you know when it happens.

With love, until next time

Anne

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