mini chess set suggestions?

Since you ask for a compact size to be carried in your smaller backpack, you definitely need a folding magnetic chess set. 

5 Inch - 
Pros :
1) This is a 5 inch set when folded will fit into your single hand. Very compact and easy to carry.
2) No need for separate piece storage. You can store within the board itself.
3) High quality wood with matte finish.

Cons :
1) There is no separate compartment for individual pieces.
2) Since the pieces are too small, the details in pieces are not that much. This is normal in small sets.


7 Inch -
Pros :
1) This 7 inch set is a good size as it hits sweet spot compared to 5 inch or 10 inch board.
2) Every chess piece have separate compartment to store.
3)No need for separate piece storage. You can store within the board itself.
4) Chess pieces have more details and very much like a normal board size.
Cons :
1) A bit bigger than 5 inch.


Conclusion :
If compact is your first preference you can go for 5 inch set. But you can compromise for some very little space, then 7 inch is a good as it have some good features like separate piece compartment and more details in chess piece (compare knight of 5 inch and 7 inch).

Suggestion :
If you want to buy now you get 20% discount. But someday there is a 50% discount. If you want now click the below link. If you can wait to get 50% discount, I will notify you if you want. You get free Replacement for damage during shipping, just send them damaged pictures. 

Buy from this link :
5 Inch :https://www.chessbazaar.com/travel-series-magnetic-pocket-chess-set-in-sheesham-box-wood.html?acc=b3e3e393c77e35a4a3f3cbd1e429b5dc

Discount Code : LABOR20
Price after Discount : $27.52

7 Inch :https://www.chessbazaar.com/travel-series-folding-magnetic-chess-set-sheesham-box-wood-7.html?acc=b3e3e393c77e35a4a3f3cbd1e429b5dc

Discount Code : LABOR20
Price after discount : $35.84

check out ChessHouse, House of Staunton and Wholesale Chess...

https://www.chesshouse.com/collections/travel-chess-sets

https://www.houseofstaunton.com/chess-sets/travel-chess-sets.html

https://www.wholesalechess.com/shop/chess_sets/travel_chess_sets