Best Backpack For Minimalist Travel: Smarter Organization With Easier Carry

A strong minimalist travel backpack delivers enough capacity for your essentials, sensible organization, and a comfortable way to carry less; it suits travelers who prioritize mobility over maximum storage. This roundup covers 10 options ranging from the 10-liter The North Face Borealis Mini and SKYSPER Small Daypack to the 40-liter LOVEVOOK carry-on backpack. You will also find exceptionally compact packable bags, laptop-ready designs, and personal-item-style layouts.

The key decision is matching capacity and structure to your travel pattern: a foldable daypack works well as an occasional destination bag, while a 21-liter or slim laptop pack better suits short trips and work travel. Compare dimensions, device compatibility, pockets, straps, and materials before choosing.

The best backpack for minimalist travel depends on how much structure and capacity you need. Nanobag’s 16-liter Daypack weighs 30 grams and packs into an attached pouch, while Osprey’s Ultralight Collapsible Stuff Pack provides capacity on demand. For laptop travel, the Osprey Ozone Slim Pack fits most laptops up to 16 inches, and the Rangeland 21L includes a separate laptop compartment and luggage trolley strap.

For longer carry-on packing, LOVEVOOK offers a 40-liter design with an 18-inch height and carry-on positioning.

Minimalist Travel Backpack Comparison

ImageProductBuy
Best Pick 1
Nanobag Daypack 16L Ultralight Packable Foldable Travel Backpack for Hiking
Nanobag Daypack 16L Ultralight Packable Foldable Travel Backpack for Hiking
Best for: Ultralight packable daypack
Brand: Nanobag | Apparel Fabric Weight Class: Lightweight
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Best Pick 2
BAGSMART Travel Backpack for Women, 15.6" College Laptop Backpack, Camel
BAGSMART Travel Backpack for Women, 15.6" College Laptop Backpack, Camel
Best for: Women's laptop travel
Brand: BAGSMART | Apparel Fabric Weight Class: Medium Weight
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Best Pick 3
SKYSPER Small Daypack 10L Hiking Backpack Packable Lightweight Travel Day Pack for Women Men
SKYSPER Small Daypack 10L Hiking Backpack Packable Lightweight Travel Day Pack for Women Men
Best for: Compact hiking daypack
Brand: SKYSPER | Apparel Fabric Weight Class: Lightweight
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Best Pick 4
BAGSMART Mini Backpack for Women, Small Backpack Purse, Camel
BAGSMART Mini Backpack for Women, Small Backpack Purse, Camel
Best for: Small women's purse
Brand: BAGSMART
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Best Pick 5
The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size
The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size
Best for: Miniature everyday pack
View on Amazon

How We Compared These Products

We compared capacity, dimensions, compartment layout, materials, carrying design, and device or airline fit across many Amazon listings. These details matter because a travel bag must hold the intended gear, remain comfortable in transit, fit the relevant size limits, and keep frequently used items accessible. After examining the wider field, we selected 10 products from Nanobag, BAGSMART, SKYSPER, LOVEVOOK, Osprey, and Rangeland.

The shortlist includes products such as Nanobag Daypack 16L Ultralight Packable Foldable Travel Backpack for Hiking, BAGSMART Travel Backpack for Women, and SKYSPER Small Daypack 10L Hiking Backpack Packable Lightweight Travel Day Pack for Women. Every recommendation is tied to information stated for that specific product; unclear or missing features were treated as unknown rather than filled with assumptions.

Detailed Reviews: Best Backpack For Minimalist Travel

1. Nanobag Daypack 16L Ultralight Packable Foldable Travel Backpack for Hiking

Nanobag Daypack 16L Ultralight Packable Foldable Travel Backpack for Hiking

Best for: Ultralight Packable Daypack.

This ultralight 16L daypack weighs only 1.15oz, making it exceptionally portable for travel without adding bulk. Its premium diamond ripstop nylon fabric allows it to pack down small enough to fit in a pocket or purse, enabling effortless carrying of essentials.

Crafted from premium diamond ripstop nylon, this 16L daypack offers a remarkable strength-to-weight ratio. It weighs just 30g and can be stuffed into its attached pouch in seconds, fitting easily into luggage or a glove compartment. The 18"H x 14"W x 6"D dimensions provide ample space for day trip necessities, and it's recommended for work and everyday use.

Product Details

BrandNanobag
Apparel Fabric Weight ClassLightweight
ColorBlack
Fit to Size SentimentNeutral to Positive
Dimensions6"D x 14"W x 18"H
Item Weight30 g
MaterialNylon
Additional Product Information
Maximum Weight Recommendation30 kg
ModelNanobag Daypack
Special FeaturesHeavy Duty
Outer MaterialPremium Diamond Ripstop Nylon
Care InstructionsHand Wash Only
Product StyleDaypack
Recommended UsesWork
SizeDaypack
Style NumberNanobag Daypack

Pros

  • Weighs only 1.15oz (30g)
  • Packs away into its own pouch
  • Made from premium diamond ripstop nylon
  • 16L capacity for day trips

Cons

  • Hand wash only

Ideal for travelers prioritizing minimal weight and packability, this daypack is perfect for sightseeing or day trips. Consider its lightweight construction if you need to carry heavier items, as it has a maximum weight recommendation of 30 kg.

2. BAGSMART Travel Backpack for Women, 15.6″ College Laptop Backpack, Camel

BAGSMART Travel Backpack for Women, 15.6" College Laptop Backpack, Camel

Best for: Stylish Laptop Travel Backpack.

Combining style and functionality, this women's backpack features a dedicated 15.6" laptop compartment for secure transport. Its ample compartments help you stay organized, ensuring easy access to your essentials while showcasing your unique style on the go.

This BAGSMART backpack, measuring 17.3"H x 11.8"W x 7.9"D, is designed for both fashion and practicality. It accommodates laptops up to 15.6 inches and offers thoughtfully separated compartments for books and supplies, promoting organization. The taslon material is medium weight, and the backpack is recommended for leisure and travel, requiring hand washing for care.

Product Details

BrandBAGSMART
Apparel Fabric Weight ClassMedium Weight
ColorCamel
Compatible Device Size Maximum15.6 inches
Dimensions7.8"D x 11.8"W x 17.3"H
Item Weight0.02 kg
MaterialTaslon
Additional Product Information
ModelBm0301091
Special FeaturesAdjustable
Outer MaterialTaslan
Care InstructionsHand Wash Only
Product StylePuffer Backpack for Women
Recommended UsesLeisure, Travel
SizeStandard 15.6 Inch
Style NumberBM0301091AN006-SR-FUS

Pros

  • Dedicated 15.6" laptop compartment
  • Ample, organized compartments
  • Stylish design for women
  • Suitable for travel and leisure

Cons

  • Requires hand washing

This backpack is a great choice for women who need a stylish yet practical bag for college or travel, capable of carrying a 15.6" laptop. Its medium weight construction might not be the most ultralight option for minimalist packers.

3. SKYSPER Small Daypack 10L Hiking Backpack Packable Lightweight Travel Day Pack for Women Men

SKYSPER Small Daypack 10L Hiking Backpack Packable Lightweight Travel Day Pack for Women Men

Best for: Compact Foldable Hiking Daypack.

This 10L SKYSPER daypack is super lightweight at only 0.6 lbs, making it ideal for carrying smaller essentials on light duty trips. It folds up to a compact 6.7" x 7" size, easily fitting into a pocket or small bag for convenient storage.

The SKYSPER 10L daypack, measuring 9"H x 3.9"W x 3.1"D, is constructed from polyester and weighs 0.27 kg, offering a lightweight solution for travel. It features a bottle holder and is foldable for easy storage, with a capacity suitable for a 1L water bottle, snacks, and a hat. It's designed for travel and is water-resistant.

Product Details

BrandSKYSPER
Apparel Fabric Weight ClassLightweight
ColorBlack
Compatible Device Size Maximum15 inches
Fit to Size SentimentNeutral
Dimensions3.1"D x 3.9"W x 9"H
Item Weight0.27 kg
Additional Product Information
ManufacturerSKYSPER
Part NumberSKIL06-01-ISHELL10-black-SK
MaterialPolyester
ModelIshell10
Special FeaturesBottle Holder, Foldable, Lightweight, Water Resistant
Outer MaterialPolyester
Care InstructionsHand Wash Only
Product StyleDaypack Backpacks
Recommended UsesTravel
Size10l
Style NumberISHELL

Pros

  • Weighs only 0.6 lbs
  • Folds to 6.7" x 7"
  • Includes a bottle holder
  • Water-resistant polyester material

Cons

  • 10L capacity may be too small for some

Perfect for travelers needing a lightweight, packable bag for essentials, this 10L daypack is suitable for day trips. If you require more space for gear or a larger laptop, consider a larger capacity option.

4. BAGSMART Mini Backpack for Women, Small Backpack Purse, Camel

BAGSMART Mini Backpack for Women, Small Backpack Purse, Camel

Best for: Mini Backpack Purse.

This ultra-lightweight mini backpack purse offers exceptional portability with dimensions of 8.2"H x 4.3"W x 11.4"D. It provides a comfortable, barely-there feel while holding daily essentials like your wallet, phone, and cosmetics.

Designed for portability, this mini backpack purse weighs very little and measures 11.4"H x 4.3"W x 8.2"D. It includes a main compartment for a 9.7-inch iPad and a back pocket that fits close to the body, keeping items organized. The lightweight design ensures comfort for carrying daily essentials without added bulk.

Product Details

BrandBAGSMART

Pros

  • Ultra-lightweight design
  • Compact dimensions
  • Organized multi-compartments
  • Comfortable for daily use

Cons

  • Main compartment fits only up to 9.7-inch iPad

This mini backpack is ideal for those who carry only the essentials and value a lightweight, compact design. It's less suitable for travelers needing to carry larger items or documents like A4-sized books.

5. The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size

The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack, TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF, One Size

Best for: Scaled-Down Travel Classic.

The Borealis Mini is a 10-liter scaled-down version of a classic, featuring an iconic front bungee system for quick external storage. Made from tough, abrasion-resistant fabric with a non-PFC Water Repellent coating, it's built for durability.

This 10-liter Borealis Mini backpack is constructed from tough, abrasion-resistant fabric with a non-PFC Water Repellent coating for durability. It features an external bungee-compression system for smart organization and tough U-pull YKK zippers for easy access. A padded top handle adds comfort for carrying on the go.

Pros

  • Iconic front bungee system
  • Durable, abrasion-resistant fabric
  • Non-PFC Water Repellent coating
  • Tough U-pull YKK zippers

Cons

  • 10L capacity is minimal

This mini backpack is suited for urban commutes or short trips where minimal gear is needed, offering the durability of its larger counterpart. Its 10L capacity may be insufficient for longer travel or extensive packing needs.

6. LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack for Women, Airline Approved Carry On Backpack

LOVEVOOK 40L Travel Backpack for Women, Airline Approved Carry On Backpack

Best for: Airline Approved Carry-On.

This 40L travel backpack is airline-approved and designed for efficient packing, measuring 18"H x 14"W x 8"D. Its lightweight polyester construction ensures comfortable carrying, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking ample space.

The LOVEVOOK 40L travel backpack is crafted from lightweight polyester, with dimensions of 18"H x 14"W x 8"D, and is recommended for travel. It is designed to fit airline carry-on dimensions, offering substantial space for essentials. The bag is intended to be functional and aesthetically pleasing, reflecting the brand's belief in beauty and affordability.

Product Details

BrandLOVEVOOK
Apparel Fabric Weight ClassLightweight
ColorBlack
Compatible Device Size Maximum17 inches
Fit to Size Sentimentfits well
Dimensions8"D x 14"W x 18"H
MaterialPolyester
Additional Product Information
Maximum Weight Recommendation2.2 pounds
Special FeaturesCarry-On
Outer MaterialPolyester
Care InstructionsHand Wash Only
Product StyleTravel Backpacks
Recommended UsesTravel
Size40L-4PCS
Strap SizeMedium

Pros

  • Airline approved carry-on size
  • 40L capacity
  • Lightweight polyester material
  • Designed for travel

Cons

  • Requires hand wash only

This 40L backpack is an excellent option for travelers who need maximum carry-on space for trips. It may be too large for those seeking a truly minimalist, personal-item-only bag.

7. Osprey Ultralight Collapsible Stuff Pack, Black OS

Osprey Ultralight Collapsible Stuff Pack, Black OS

Best for: Ultralight Collapsible Stuff Pack.

This ultralight and collapsible 0.15 kg stuff pack offers on-demand capacity for day trips or souvenir shopping. Crafted from bluesign® approved, 100% recycled 40D high-tenacity nylon, it combines sustainability with lightweight functionality.

The Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack, weighing 0.15 kg and measuring 5"H x 6"W x 2"D when packed, is made from bluesign® approved, 100% recycled 40D high-tenacity nylon. This packable daypack provides capacity when needed and collapses small for easy storage. It's suitable for travel, work, and school, and requires hand washing.

Product Details

BrandOsprey
Apparel Fabric Weight ClassLightweight
Backpack Harness SizeMedium
ColorBlack
Compatible Device Size Maximum17 inches
Fit to Size SentimentPositive
Dimensions2"D x 6"W x 5"H
Additional Product Information
Item Weight0.15 kg
ManufacturerOsprey
Part Number10004893
MaterialNylon
ModelUl Stuff Pack
Special FeaturesCollapsible
Outer MaterialNylon
Care InstructionsHand Wash Only
Product StyleUltralight Stuff Pack
Recommended UsesSchool, Travel, Work
SizeO/S
Style Number10004893

Pros

  • Ultralight and collapsible
  • Made from recycled nylon
  • Bluesign® approved fabric
  • Provides capacity on demand

Cons

  • Minimalist design lacks organization features

This pack is ideal for travelers who need an extra bag that can be stowed away easily and deployed for day trips or carrying souvenirs. Its ultralight nature means it's not suited for carrying heavy loads or for use as a primary, structured bag.

8. SKYSPER 15L/20L Foldable Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Travel Daypack with Chest Strap Small Folding Pack for Walking

SKYSPER 15L/20L Foldable Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable Travel Daypack with Chest Strap Small Folding Pack for Walking

Best for: Foldable Travel Daypack with Chest Strap.

This 15L SKYSPER foldable daypack, measuring 16.9"H x 10.8"W x 4.7"D, offers spacious organization with multiple compartments and a wide opening. It includes 3 zippered pockets, a hidden back pocket, and two side mesh pockets for convenient storage.

The SKYSPER 15L daypack is made of polyester and weighs 340g, featuring a large main compartment with a wide opening for easy packing. It includes 3 zippered pockets, a hidden back pocket, and two 7.5-inch high side mesh pockets for organization. An upgraded chest strap enhances comfort during use, making it suitable for leisure activities.

Product Details

BrandSKYSPER
Apparel Fabric Weight ClassLightweight
ColorBlack
Compatible Device Size Maximum15 inches
Fit to Size SentimentRegular
Dimensions4"D x 10"W x 16"H
Item Weight340 g
Additional Product Information
ManufacturerSKYSPER
Part NumberSKIM02-01-IMINIX15-black
MaterialPolyester
ModelIminix 15
Special FeaturesLightweight
Outer MaterialPolyester
Care InstructionsHand Wash Only
Product StyleDaypack Backpacks
Recommended UsesLeisure
Size15l
Style NumberIMINIX15

Pros

  • Spacious 15L capacity
  • Multiple zippered pockets
  • Dual side mesh pockets
  • Enhanced comfort with chest strap

Cons

  • Heavier than some packable options

This backpack is suitable for travelers who need a lightweight yet organized daypack for leisure or day trips, offering good storage options. Its 340g weight might be a consideration for those strictly adhering to ultralight packing principles.

9. Travel Backpack 21L Minimalist Casual Small Carry-on Daypack 15-inch Laptop Notebook, Overnight Weekender Dark Yellow Mustard

Travel Backpack 21L Minimalist Casual Small Carry-on Daypack 15-inch Laptop Notebook, Overnight Weekender Dark Yellow Mustard

Best for: Minimalist Carry-On Daypack.

This 21L Rangeland travel backpack functions as a personal item, fitting under most airline seats. It opens like a suitcase for easy packing and features a separate laptop compartment for convenient security checks.

The Rangeland 21L daypack is designed as a flight-approved personal item, measuring to fit under airplane seats. It opens suitcase-style for practical packing and includes a dedicated, padded compartment for laptops up to 15 inches, facilitating quick removal at security. A padded grab-and-go handle and luggage trolley strap enhance travel convenience.

Product Details

BrandRangeland

Pros

  • Fits under most airline seats
  • Opens suitcase-style
  • Separate padded laptop compartment
  • Includes luggage trolley strap

Cons

  • 21L capacity may be limiting for longer trips

This backpack is ideal for minimalist travelers and short overnight trips who need a carry-on that maximizes under-seat storage. It may not provide enough space for extended travel or those who pack more than the essentials.

10. Osprey Ozone Slim Pack, Black OS

Osprey Ozone Slim Pack, Black OS

Best for: Slim Laptop Travel Pack.

The Osprey Ozone Slim Pack offers ultralight performance for minimalist travel, accommodating laptops up to 16 inches. Its ventilated AirScape backpanel and luggage trolley sleeve provide comfort and convenience for on-the-go professionals.

Designed for lightweight travel, this Osprey Ozone Slim Pack features a dedicated laptop compartment for devices up to 16 inches and a spacious main compartment with an organizer. It includes dual stretch mesh water bottle pockets and a ventilated AirScape backpanel with a luggage trolley sleeve for added comfort and utility.

Product Details

BrandOsprey
Apparel Fabric Weight ClassLightweight
ColorBlack
Compatible Device Size Maximum16 inches
Fit to Size SentimentNeutral
Included ComponentsBackpack
Item Weight0.58 kg
Additional Product Information
ManufacturerOsprey
MaterialNylon
ModelOzone Slim Pack
Special FeaturesVentilated AirScape Backpanel, Dedicated Laptop Compartment, Dual Water Bottle Pockets
Outer MaterialNylon
Product StyleMinimalist
Recommended UsesWork, Travel, School
SizeOne Size
Warranty DescriptionAll Mighty Guarantee

Pros

  • Accommodates up to 16-inch laptops
  • Ventilated AirScape backpanel
  • Luggage trolley sleeve
  • Dual water bottle pockets

Cons

  • 0.58 kg weight is heavier than some ultralight options

This pack is perfect for business travelers or minimalists needing to carry a laptop and essentials, offering comfort and organization. Its 0.58kg weight might be a factor for those prioritizing absolute lightest travel gear.

What Buyers Often Overlook

How should you match backpack capacity to minimalist travel?

Choose capacity according to the load you actually carry: 10 liters suits a compact day load, 15 to 21 liters covers more organized essentials, and 40 liters targets extended carry-on packing. The North Face Borealis Mini and SKYSPER Small Daypack both offer 10-liter formats for city use, snacks, water, and other smaller items. SKYSPER’s 15-liter pack adds a wide-opening main compartment, three zippered pockets, a hidden back pocket, and two side mesh pockets.

The 16-liter Nanobag offers more room while weighing only 30 grams, although its packable construction prioritizes minimal bulk. The Rangeland 21L adds a suitcase-style opening and under-seat positioning for most airlines named in its listing.

At the largest end, LOVEVOOK’s 40L backpack measures 18 inches high and is described as carry-on, making it better for travelers consolidating more gear into one bag.

The Key Product Trade-Off

What fit and compatibility details matter for laptop travel?

Laptop compatibility varies substantially, so check the stated device limit before choosing a minimalist work-travel pack. BAGSMART’s Travel Backpack accommodates devices up to 15.6 inches and separates a laptop from books and supplies with multiple compartments. Osprey’s Ozone Slim Pack holds most laptops up to 16 inches, adds a dedicated laptop compartment, a main-compartment organizer, dual stretch mesh water-bottle pockets, and a ventilated AirScape backpanel.

The Rangeland 21L also provides a separate laptop compartment, a padded grab-and-go handle, and a luggage trolley strap, useful when combining it with rolling luggage. Packable options have a different trade-off: SKYSPER’s 10L listing notes compatibility up to 15 inches, but describes the pack as intended for smaller essentials, while Nanobag emphasizes ultralight portability and compact storage.

For heavier laptop loads, prioritize the listed compartment and carry features over the smallest packed size.

Best Backpack For Minimalist Travel: Buyer's Guide

Fit, Dimensions, and Compatibility

Compare the listed dimensions with the intended counter, cabinet, appliance, storage, or installation space. Confirm model compatibility and connection requirements where they are supplied. A useful feature cannot compensate for a product that does not physically fit or work with the buyer’s existing setup.

Capacity, Output, and Operating Format

Match listed capacity, volume, output, and operating mode to the actual household or work routine. Larger figures can support heavier use, while a smaller format may be easier to place and maintain. Treat daily output, immediate storage, and container capacity as separate specifications when the listing distinguishes them.

Materials, Construction, and Care

Use the listed materials and care instructions to judge cleaning effort, storage conditions, and compatibility with the intended use. Dishwasher, freezer, food-contact, or weather-related claims are included only when supplied for that product. Check whether routine care fits the way the product will be used.

Included Components and Setup Needs

Review the included components before planning installation or first use. Hoses, adapters, lids, paddles, bowls, brushes, controls, and manuals vary by listing. Confirm power, water, assembly, or accessory requirements from the supplied product information rather than assuming that separately pictured parts are included.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Nanobag’s 16-liter Daypack if minimum packed bulk and exceptionally low weight matter most. Pick the Osprey Ultralight Collapsible Stuff Pack when you want a lightweight backup for day trips or souvenirs. For a compact outdoor day load, SKYSPER’s 10L pack provides a bottle holder, foldability, and water resistance; its 15L model adds more pockets and a chest strap.

Choose The North Face Borealis Mini for a 10-liter city pack with abrasion-resistant fabric, bungee storage, and water-repellent coating. Laptop travelers should compare BAGSMART, Rangeland, and Osprey Ozone Slim Pack.

Select LOVEVOOK when one 40-liter carry-on backpack better matches your packing needs, while BAGSMART’s Mini is designed for daily essentials and a 9.7-inch iPad rather than A4 documents or books.

Quick Buying Checklist

  • Confirm the complete dimensions against the available space.
  • Verify model, accessory, connection, and appliance compatibility.
  • Match capacity or output to the expected amount of use.
  • Compare materials and care instructions with the maintenance routine.
  • Check the included components before planning setup or first use.
  • Confirm listed power, water, storage, or installation requirements where applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary benefit of a minimalist travel backpack?

Minimalist backpacks prioritize essential features and a streamlined design, reducing bulk and weight. This makes them easier to carry, more organized for essentials, and often compliant with carry-on restrictions, enhancing overall travel convenience and mobility.

How do I choose the right capacity for a minimalist backpack?

Capacity depends on trip length and packing style. For day trips or short city breaks, 15-25 liters is usually sufficient. Longer trips or those requiring more gear might necessitate a slightly larger, yet still minimalist, pack around 30-40 liters.

Are minimalist backpacks durable enough for travel?

Many minimalist backpacks are constructed from durable, lightweight materials like ripstop nylon or polyester. While they may not have the heavy-duty padding of larger packs, they are designed to withstand the rigors of travel when packed appropriately.

Can a minimalist backpack fit a laptop?

Some minimalist backpacks are specifically designed with padded laptop compartments, typically accommodating up to 15.6-inch devices. Always check the product description to confirm the presence and size of a dedicated laptop sleeve.

What makes a backpack suitable for airline carry-on?

Carry-on suitability is determined by dimensions and often capacity. Minimalist backpacks, especially those around 40L or less and with slim profiles, are frequently designed to meet airline size restrictions, avoiding checked baggage fees.

Final Words

For minimalist travel, selecting a backpack hinges on your specific needs for capacity and intended use. Whether you prioritize ultralight portability, dedicated laptop storage, or airline compliance, a well-chosen minimalist pack enhances your journey by keeping essentials organized and travel streamlined.

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