Roll up your beach towel and put away the cute swimsuits. The bell is ringing and it’s time to head back to school for the fall season!
While everyone may not be excited to bring out the school supplies, we can almost guarantee there’s one common love: back-to-school shopping.
During this outing, you get to choose all-new jeans, a pair of spunky new shoes, some trendy dorm decor, and even a fun backpack.
- Best overall backpack for kids: adidas Classic 3S 4 Backpack
- Best overall backpack for high school: Fjallraven Kanken Classic Backpack
- Best overall backpack for college: lululemon Triple-Zip Backpack
- Most durable backpack: Carhartt 21L Classic Laptop Daypack
- Best lightweight backpack: Vera Bradley Cotton Xl Campus Backpack
Will you opt for a pretty floral print backpack or a skater-boy checkered vibe? Whichever you go with, it’s going to celebrate who you are and what you’re about — so make it count!
We listed the best back-to-school backpacks below to help you or the student in your life find the perfect pick. The best backpack brands range from The North Face and Patagonia to Vans and Disney. Pair it with a cute lunchbox for the full ensemble.
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Best Backpacks for Kids
Best overall kids backpack: adidas Classic 3S 4 Backpack
Pros:
- Lifetime warranty
- Made with wipeable material for easier spot cleaning
- Can store a 16-inch laptop
- Side pocket for water bottle
Cons:
- Some customers on Amazon complain about the zipper’s durability
Both sporty and studious — this classic backpack features plenty of outer pockets, padded straps, and a top handle. The lightweight fabric is made with eco-friendly, recycled materials and wipes clean with water. And let’s not forget about the adorable colorways!
Color options: 13 | Size: 8 x 11.3 x 20 inches
Best budget-friendly kids backpack: Jansport Half Pint Mini Backpack
Pros:
- Surprisingly roomy for a smaller backpack
- Webbing grab handle
- Adjustable shoulder straps
Cons:
- The straps could be thicker for a more comfortable carrying experience
There are plenty of sturdy and reliable backpacks on the market — but it’s rare to score one for under $25. Reviewers love this budget-friendly find from Jansport for its spacious compartments and range of styles.
Color options: 19 | Size: 11.2 x 9.8 x 4.1 inches
Best backpack for little kids: L.L.Bean Deluxe Book Pack
Pros:
- Bestselling backpack
- Made with waterproof nylon
- Waist belt for a better fit
Cons:
- Some reviewers on L.L. Bean report the zipper getting stuck
Make sure your young one has the best backpack on the block. Featuring clean lines and organizational features, this backpack will come in handy time and time again. Don’t let the size of this small backpack fool you, it can carry a lot. The front pocket has an organizer panel, a key clip, as well as another spot for things like erasers or change. The main compartment is deep enough for books, lunch, and even a spare shirt. Available in 10 bright colors.
Color options: 10 | Size: 17 x 13 x 9.5 inches
Best kids backpack with lunch box: Trailmaker Backpack with Lunch Bag
Pros:
- The backpack comes with a lunch box and water bottle
- A front zipper pocket that’s ideal for a photo, wallet, and house keys
Cons:
- This backpack is strong enough for notebooks, pens and other lightweight items. However, we wouldn’t recommend this for a child who has hardcover books to carry
What better way to make your child excited for school than with a shiny and bright backpack with all the accessories? It includes a pencil case, a reusable water bottle, an ID tag, and of course, an insulated lunchbox. The interior has a slot for a notebook, worksheets, and maybe a toy or two. Pick from three different sizes. Available in two magical prints.
Color options: 5 | Size: 16 x 12 x 5.3 inches
Best Disney backpack for kids: Mackenzie Lavender Disney Princess Backpack
Pros:
- Backpack can be monogrammed to have your child’s name
- Adjustable PP webbing straps
- Available in three different sizes
Cons:
- Material isn’t waterproof
Have a Disney princess (or prince!) in your castle? This cute backpack is for them. It has lots of storage, perfect for colored pencils, a bagged lunch, and a juice box. It’s also made with water-resistant 600 denier recycled polyester, has a glow-in-the-dark feature, and is available in three different sizes. It can also be bundled to include a matching lunchbox and thermos.
Color options: 1 | Size: 2 x 6 x 15 inches (three difference sizes)
Best luxury kids backpack: Kane Double Pocket Large Backpack
Pros:
- Available in multiple sizes
- Built-in luggage sleeve
- Can fit a 13-inch laptop along with a variety of other items
Cons:
- Straps have a tendency to not stay in place
We’ve got the bag for you — but only if you’re willing to splurge. State makes some of the best kids’ backpacks, in terms of quality, functionality, and aesthetics. The brand offers a fun range of on-trend styles, from metallic to patchwork and camo puffs — so your kiddo’s backpack will be hard to miss in the school pickup line.
Color options: 25 | Size: 17 x 13 x 8 inches
Best value backpack for kids: Kids’ 16″ Backpack by Cat & Jack
Pros:
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Sturdy top handle
- Two side pockets for water bottles
Cons:
- Overall, we love this backpack. However, we do wish it was waterproof or had protection from the sun to maintain its vibrant print over time
Flower power for less than $13! This kid’s backpack by Cat & Jack has stolen our hearts — and that of dozens of reviewers. It’s available in several patterns for every type of little personality, from metallic pink to camo print and butterfly. Customers say it’s easy for toddlers to carry, and the well-placed pockets keep everything organized.
Color options: 5 | Size:16 x 12 x 5 inches
Best Backpacks for High School
Best overall: Fjallraven Kanken Classic Backpack
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Lightweight but durable
- Adjustable straps
Cons:
- Straps are on the thinner side, so we still don’t recommend overloading this backpack with heavy items
With back-to-school right around the corner, there is one exceptionally popular backpack brand that is on every student’s mind — it’s never gone out of style. Fjallraven makes just about every single colored backpack under the rainbow — and we couldn’t be more excited about it. Want one in deep yellow? It’s yours. What about pastel pink? You can snag that one too.
Color options: 41 | Size: 11 x 14 x 5 inches
Best backpack for laptop: lululemon Everywhere Backpack
Pros:
- Made with water-resistant material
- Interior padded pocket to fit a 16-inch laptop
- Side pocket for water bottle storage
Cons:
- Not washable
From school to batting practice to home again, this backpack with lots of pockets will carry all you need. Made for those on the go, the functional but stylish bag has a large front zipper pocket, a 16-inch interior padded pocket for a laptop, and side pockets for drinks or smaller items. Available in black, as well as the color trench.
Color options: 6 | Size: 11.4 x 5.9 x 16.9 inches
Best designer backpack: Supreme SS 21 Backpack
Pros:
- Multiple internal slip pockets
- Thick adjustable straps
- Large enough that it also works as a backpack for travel or the gym
- Durable
Cons:
- Backpack feels almost “too big” unless you need to carry a lot
There’s no missing this backpack. Complete with pockets and a trend-forward design, this nylon Supreme backpack will have you lookin’ fly. The rugged tan construction features a see-through logo in a glossy finish, and no shortage of useful features — such as side patch pockets, internal slips, adjustable straps, and a round top handle for easy carrying.
Color options: 1 | Size: N/A
Best functional backpack: Etronik Lunch Backpack for Women
Pros:
- Has a charging station
- Stylish hardware
- Top handle and thicker straps
Cons:
- The backpack tends to topple over when the lunchbox is not inside to anker it
This laptop backpack is stylish and functional. It has a detachable insulated lunch bag made of Oxford cloth and aluminum foil to keep food warm and drinks chilled. Lunch-preserving powers aside, the backpack also has a ton of features, including a laptop sleeve and separate compartments for a power bank, tablet — even clothes. A side pocket is a handy place for an umbrella or water bottle. Available in three different colors.
Color options: 4 |. Size: 14.2 x 9.5 x 3.2 inches
Most sleek backpack: Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack
Pros:
- Laptop pocket is on the outside for easy TSA access
- Interior slip pockets for notebooks
- Luggage handle pass-through strap
Cons:
- Strap magnets on the back could be stronger
For the upperclassman with a minimalistic style, this book bag is the way to go. Besides being futuristically sleek, it’s as functional as they come. The 15-inch exterior laptop pocket is right in front for easy access. The interior has slip pockets for notebooks, phones, and whatever else you don’t need to be tossed around, as well as two spots for water bottles. Also a great choice for overnight excursions, the bag has a pass-through strap to connect to rolling luggage and can be purchased with or without the Everlane label.
Color options: 5 | Size: 17.5 x 12 x 7.3 inches
Best on-trend backpack: Sprayground HELLO WORLD V14 BACKPACK
Pros:
- Strap to attach to luggage
- Made with faux-leather, water-resistant material
Cons:
- Only available in one style
Sprayground is the latest craze in the bag and luggage space, and we can see why. The hot new brand regularly drops epic styles, layered with color-popping patterns, painting, and graffiti. Some of these backpacks are offered exclusively at the Metropolitan Museum of Art — which makes it all the more exciting when you can order yourself one online.
Color options: N/A | Size: 8 x 6 x 11.5 inches
Best backpack for sports: Nike Sportswear Essentials 20L Backpack
Pros:
- Large laptop sleeve
- Made with water-resistant
- Rain flap over zippers
Cons:
- It can feel bulky, especially when stuffed to the zipper
Heading to practice after school? Nike’s offered us a sportier version take of the classic all-around bag. Available in a deep army green, this lightweight, slim backpack is truly a do-it-all find. Featuring a large laptop sleeve, a phone holder, and a roomy compartment, you’ll have all of your storage needs met.
Color options: 1 | Size: 6 x 12 x 20 inches
Best lightweight backpack: Vera Bradley Cotton Xl Campus Backpack
Pros:
- Laptop compartment
- Front zip compartment, including pockets for pens, and an I.D. slot
Cons:
- Cotton material attracts lint
Made with breathable organic cotton and featuring a chic and secure design, this Vera Bradley backpack is sure to get compliments. Another factor to consider for long days on campus is the weight that you’ll put on your shoulders. At just two pounds, you will easily forget you are carrying it around. Plus, the flower patterns are lovely, and you can choose from other designs as well.
Color options: 17 | Size: 8.5 x 12 x 16.5 inches
Best vintage backpack: Vans Old Skool H20 Check Backpack
Pros:
- Adjustable padded straps
- Retro-design
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a padded interior sleeve for laptop or tablet
Keep things simple with this classic Vans Old Skool Check Backpack. It doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles but there’s still a front zippered pocket for pens and a phone, as well as a large interior compartment. Reviewers love the edgy, vintage look that makes this bag cool enough for study sessions or the skate park.
Color options: 1 | Size: 12 x 12 x 8 inches
Best Backpacks for College
Best overall backpack: lululemon Triple-Zip Backpack
Pros:
- Water-repellant fabric
- Padded shoulder straps
- Reflective details
- Back panel to provide lumbar support
Cons:
- The luggage strap is on the thin side
You already know lululemon makes some of the best athletic wear out there, but did you know the brand makes amazing backpacks too? This Triple-Zip style is one of our favorites because of all the storage it gives. There is an interior pocket for essentials, side pockets for items you need to grab quickly, plus a padded laptop pocket. Another thing we love? The bag has load-lifter straps that are adjustable and padded. Anything that’s functional, comfortable, and stylish gets our vote!
Color options: 3 | Size: 14 x 8.3 x 19.5 inches
Best big backpack for books: Herschel Supply Co. Little America Pro Backpack
Pros:
- Zippered front pockets with key clip
- Contoured shoulder pads and air mesh back
- Laptop compartment
Cons:
- On the heavier side
College classes come with loads of textbooks, which means a big backpack might be a requirement. This wide and sturdy backpack works great for both ladies and gents, and can fit electronics, clothes, and whatever you can’t leave at home. We love it in basic black, but if you get it from Zappos, you’ll have lots of other color options to choose from.
Color options: 12 | Size: 15 x 11.3 x 19.3 inches
Best versatile backpack: Free People Bolsa Nova Momma Mia Backpack
Pros:
- Adjustable straps
- The bag can be worn or carried in multiple ways
- Four exterior zipper compartments allow for easy retrieval
- Durable leather construction
Cons:
- On the smaller side (but still fits essentials)
Backpacks are great for students, but plenty of people prefer a bag. If you’re hunting for something that can be worn both ways — the Free People Bolsa Nova Momma Mia Backpack is the way to go. This edgy bag features supple worn leather, a squarish silhouette, adjustable shoulder straps, and a top handle so you can carry it your way day-to-day.
Editor’s note: “I’ve spent most of my life trying to avoid wearing a backpack — especially when I was in college. Backpacks reminded me of High School, and I felt ready to graduate into an adult bag. I wish I’d had this Free People piece back then because it’s not just a backpack. This bohemian slouchy leather pack can be swung over your shoulders or carried like a purse for ultimate versatility. Yes, it’s on the smaller side, but it still fits all the essentials and offers four external pockets to keep things neat. I’ve thrown in a laptop, sunglasses, notebook, keys, makeup, and more with room to spare. It’s expensive, but I can tell it’s going to last for years. And, it gets a great dose of compliments, wherever you take it.”
Color options: 2 | Size: 12 x 5.5 inches
Most durable backpack: Carhartt 21L Classic Laptop Daypack
Pros:
- 15-inch laptop compartment
- Comfort shoulder straps
Cons:
- Some customers report issues with the zipper becoming stuck
Made with a large main compartment and complete with a 15-inch laptop sleeve, this Carhartt backpack will become an everyday essential. Customers suggest the rugged, ultra-tough material stands the test of time — so if you’re looking for something that will take you from freshman to senior year, you’ve found it.
Color options: 5 | Size: 12 X 17.5 X 8.8 inches
Best backpack for travel: The North Face Borealis Backpack
Pros:
- Two external pockets for water bottles
- Padded sleeve for a tablet
Cons:
- On the heavier side
Off to Spring Break? Made with easy-access pockets, an overhauled suspension system, and super cute color options, this The North Face option is a must-have for traveling college students. It also makes for the perfect hiking backpack for day trips and longer. Although this model is made for women, there’s also a unisex version.
Color options: 43 | Size: 11 x 5.8 x 18.8 inches
Best compact backpack: Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20L
Pros:
- Tech sleeve can be removed to become a protective laptop case
- Mesh straps and back for better breathability
- Water-repellant fabric
Cons:
- No zippered front pocket for easy access to smaller items
If you’re looking for a compact option, then this sturdy, water-repellant Patagonia option will more than do the trick. The mesh straps and back panels provide some breathability, so you won’t have to worry about sweaty shoulders between classes. Plus, we can’t get enough of the color blocking (it comes in a few other styles, too).
Color options: 3 | Size: 16 x 12 x 5 inches
Best splurge backpack: Tumi Voyageur Celina Backpack
Pros:
- Two way zipper
- Interior zip pocket that includes a spot for your I.D.
- Zip-padded laptop compartment
- Several external and internal zippered compartments
Cons:
- Prone to scuffing
Fashion and practically don’t always go hand-in-hand, which is why we’re gaga over the Tumi Voyageur Celina Backpack. It’s ultra-stylish without sacrificing function. Featuring a padded interior pocket to fit a 15-inch PC or 16-inch MacBook Pro, it also has space for a wallet, your cardi for the chilly office, and more!
Color options: 6 | Size: 16 x 10.6 x 6.5 inches
Best luxury backpack: Michael Kors Backpack Handbag
Pros:
- Flat bottom to prevent the backpack from falling over when placed on the floor
- Adjustable shoulder straps
Cons:
- Can only be washed by hand
Looking for something a little more luxurious? Maybe the apple of your eye is the Michael Kors Backpack Handbag. This handbag-like backpack features two exterior zip pockets, five interior slip pockets, two exterior slip pockets, and an interior zip pocket. This bag is a dream as far as storage is concerned. The different shades make it a tad more interesting too.
Color options: 6 | Size: 10 x 5.1 x 12 inches
Best backpack for commuting: Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack
Pros:
- Sleeve that fits a 14-inch laptop
- Internal sleeve for water bottle
Cons:
- On the smaller side
Sick of bringing multiple bags to work? We get it, which is why we’re recommending this commuter bag. It’s large and has a super deep center, so you can carry books, chargers — whatever you want. It has built-in organization pockets, a padded back, and adjustable straps. There’s even an Internal hydration sleeve — which means you can bring this pack from class right into the great outdoors!
Color options: 22 | Size: 7.9 x 10.2 x 17 inches
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