Image: MomJunction Design Team
After a fun summer vacation, your child may want a new backpack for school to flaunt in front of their friends. Here’s our list of the best backpacks for school to help you choose a functional yet fashionable one. School bags need to be durable and long-lasting as they are used daily. Therefore, they have to be sturdy, high-quality, and spacious.
An ideal backpack for school should have several pockets to help organize the school supplies properly. So, if you’re looking for a backpack for your child that suits their needs, pick one from the list of tried-and-tested products below and prepare for the new academic year.
Top Picks
21 Backpacks For School Students Of Every Age In 2024
1. Best With Anti-Theft Pocket: Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
Matein’s multi-purpose backpack can be used while traveling and as a school backpack. It has elastic pockets for storing water bottles, umbrellas, or any school equipment. In addition, it has a polyester construction and strong handle that makes it easy to transport.
The unique features, such as an anti-theft back pocket, a USB charger port, a multi-panel airflow back, and luggage straps, allow children to carry heavy loads. In addition, this anti-theft backpack has several compartments to help you organize the school supplies. The adjustable shoulder straps and back padding make it comfortable for school children. It is made of high-density water-repellent fabric to ensure durability and longevity. This review video will help you make an informed decision about your purchase.
Pros
- Built-in charging cable
- Separate pockets for phone and laptop
- Spacious bag
- Breathable shoulder straps
- Durable metal zippers
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Bottom is not padded
- Zippers of the main compartment may not lock properly
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 19,241 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
2. Best Ergonomic Design: Yorepek Backpack
Yorepek backpacks make your children ready to return to school. The backpack’s main compartment has a huge capacity to hold books or other backpacking accessories while traveling and a front access pocket to store stationery and school supplies. The comfortable backpack has a good ergonomic design with an airflow back.
In addition, the backpack’s hidden pockets, USB ports, and headphone holes can be used to make your travel more convenient. Yorepek backpacks are made of water-resistant, shockproof polyester fabric with nylon lining for durability. Watch this video for a detailed review of the trusted product.
Pros
- Adjustable side clasp
- Lockable zippers
- Sturdy and easy-to-lift handle
- Travel-friendly luggage strap
- Convenient to charge the phone
- TSA-friendly
- Side pockets for water bottles
Cons
- May not fit 17-inch laptops
- Some may find the zippers less durable
3. Best Lightweight: JanSport Superbreak One Backpack
JanSport offers lightweight school backpacks that are easy to carry and have plenty of storage space. The time-tested backpack has multiple compartments and built-in organizers to carry all the essentials. The straight-cut padded shoulder straps, web haul handle, and padded back panel keep your child comfortable when carrying the backpack.
The JanSport backpack is made of a strong polyester material that repels water well. The 600-denier quality fabric makes it suitable to use while traveling and on adventurous trips. Explore the reviewer’s experience in this video to know more about this product.
Pros
- Simple and convenient design
- Durable construction
- Strong zippers
- Available in a variety of colors and prints
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- No separate holder to carry the water bottle
- May not retain its shape
"I've been using this backpack for my daily commute and love its sturdy design. While it fits all my essentials, I do wish it had separate pockets for my water bottle and laptop. Still, its compliance with airline size requirements is a huge bonus when I'm traveling."
Quick factWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 5,274 satisfied customers have left positive reviews about the product on Amazon.
Matein Travel Laptop Backpack Best With Anti-Theft Pocket | Yorepek Backpack Best Ergonomic Design | JanSport Superbreak One Backpack Best Lightweight | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 1.56 pounds | 2.18 pounds | 12 ounces |
| Dimensions | 12 x 18 x 7.8 inches | 2.56 x 7.09 x 5.31 inches | 13 x 16.7 x 8.5 inches |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 19,241 | 10,264 | 5,274 |
| Price | $29.99 | $33.99 | $36 |
4. Best Spacious: Under Armour Backpack
If you are looking for a multifunctional backpack with spacious storage compartments, the Under Armour backpack will be a good pick. The adjustable shoulder straps provide support while carrying books or any luggage. In addition, its organizational features include two waterproof front pockets and separate compartments for water bottles, shoes, and other school supplies.
The backpack is made of polyester with high water and abrasion resistance. It has a D-ring on the front panel for any hanging or attachment, and the backpack is suitable for use while going to the gym or traveling.
Pros
- Padded straps
- Soft-lined laptop sleeve
- Top grab handle
- Tough bottom panel
- Available in a wide range of colors
Cons
- Some may find it small
- May not be sweatproof
"It fits a day's essentials, from my textbooks to my gym gear, so it has been great for going to college and hitting the gym after my classes. It took some time to break it in, but it has been very comfortable since, and the many pockets help keep things organized."
5. Best With Laptop Sleeve: Dickies Signature Backpack
The spacious backpack by Dickies has multiple compartments to keep your 15-inch laptop, books, notebooks, pencil cases, school supplies, and personal items in an organized manner. It is made of durable, water-resistant polyester to keep the bag’s contents safe on rainy days.
This backpack also has padded back support and shoulder straps, allowing you to carry it without straining your muscles. Moreover, the bag’s dual-colored fabric and stylish logo patch can help you stand out from the crowd.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Has a laptop sleeve
- Versatile bottle holder
- Has padded handles
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Might not be suitable for machine washing
- Might be a little smaller than expected
"This backpack has become my favorite for its lightweight design. It has ample space and stands up to daily wear and tear. Although it had a slight odor initially, airing it out took care of it."
6. Best Eco-Friendly: Himawari School Backpack
Himawari offers a fashionable and comfortable school backpack made of eco-friendly and waterproof canvas, with two front zipper pockets, two small inner pockets for stationery, and two side pockets for water bottles and other school supplies. It is one of the most distinctive backpacks because of its classic design and large capacity with multiple pockets.
The spacious waterproof backpack offers quality assurance and has a padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps for easy and comfortable carrying. This cute backpack is made of durable and waterproof nylon fabric and includes a USB port for charging electronic gadgets while traveling.
Pros
- Minimalist design
- Easy-to-grab top handle
- Fully open design
- Suitable for heavy loads
- Sturdy and lightweight
- Breathable straps
- Available in different color combinations
Cons
- No separate laptop sleeve
- Stitching on shoulder straps may come apart over time
"After putting this versatile backpack through rigorous use, I can vouch for its quality. It is comfortable and has sufficient space, with multiple compartments that keep my things organized. I consider it a solid choice for carrying heavy loads with ease."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 3,254 fine reviews on Amazon.
7. Best Machine-Washable: The North Face Women’s Jester Laptop Backpack
The North Face Women’s Jester backpack has a FlexVent suspension system with a flexible yoke and injection-molded adjustable shoulder straps to ensure comfort. It also sports a meshed back and breathable lumbar panel for better ventilation.
Loved by many reviewers, this machine-washable backpack has a 22-liter capacity and wide-opening compartments for storing all your child’s school essentials. Moreover, the bag also has secure zip pockets and a bungee system to hold all your child’s additional items.
Pros
- Padded laptop and tablet sleeve
- Quality polyester lining
- Stand-up design and breathable material
- Includes two bottle pockets
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Might be bulkier than expected
Some pockets may be small
"I've found this model quite dependable with its ample pockets and compartments for gadgets, and it has been a solid choice for work. However, I do struggle to fit some of my larger binders in it because of its shape. Still, the quality is impressive, and I love the design."
Did you know?8. Best Water-Resistant: Vaschy Lightweight Backpack for School
Vaschy’s backpack is lightweight and water-resistant. The zippers are strong, and the backpack features a classy diamond-shaped Vaschy logo. The top-loading compartment is large enough to store gear books and notebooks, while the backpack’s file divider can be used to separate books and accessories. It has adjustable shoulder straps and two water bottle pockets, making it comfortable for children.
This everyday backpack is made of soft and ultra-strong polyester and does not shrink or stretch after washing. The backpack’s high quality and unique features make it ideal for traveling and hiking.
Pros
- Padded back panel
- 20L storage capacity
- Ideal for daily use
- Padded shoulder straps
- Wide range of colors and prints
- Durable construction
Cons
- May be smaller than expected
- May not be suitable for heavy loads
"This backpack has handled the rigors of my son's school year well. The roomy compartments and the laptop sleeve are pretty reliable. Also, the straps are comfortable. Though I did find the side pockets to be a bit snug for my water bottle, overall, it has been a decent choice."
9. Best With Padded Straps: Carhartt Essentials Backpack
The Essentials backpack by Carhartt has multiple compartments, including a large main compartment with a 15-inch laptop sleeve, a front zippered compartment, and two side pockets. Its wide compartments make it easy to organize all the school essentials, such as books, notebooks, a pencil case, a laptop, and a water bottle.
The durable 600D polyester and Rain Defender water repellent (DWR) technology protects the backpack from rain and water splashes. Moreover, this best-selling bag’s classic black design makes it suitable for work, travel, and school.
Pros
- Unisex design
- Lightweight canvas polyester
- Padded shoulder straps
- Durable handle
Cons
- May not be true to size
- Larger bottles might not fit into the side pockets
10. Best Tear-Resistant: Lovevook Classic Laptop Backpack
The spacious backpack from Lovevook has different-sized compartments to organize all your child’s notebooks, stationery, and other small items. This durable backpack with quality craftsmanship also features an anti-theft pocket on the back to keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables safe and secure.
In addition, the sturdy backpack has multi-panel padding on the back for a comfortable carry and is made of water- and tear-resistant Oxford material for long-lasting use. The luggage strap allows you to fit the backpack onto suitcase handles, while the internal shockproof belt keeps your laptop and tablet from sliding.
Pros
- Double metal zippers
- Ergonomically shaped shoulder straps
- Headphone and USB charging ports
- Reinforced at stress points
- Has a separate pocket for napkins
- Available in multiple sizes and colors
Cons
- Some might find it heavier than expected
- Base might be slightly wobbly
"After using this backpack for a while, I have to say the multitude of compartments, including a laptop pocket and quick-access charging port, have been serving me well. Also, the quality build, reinforced straps, and extra shoulder padding have made this a good buy."
11. Best Laptop-Friendly:Adidas Prime Backpack
The trusted Adidas prime backpack is highly durable and comes with a lifetime warranty. It is specially designed with load spring shoulder straps to make carrying weights easier. In addition, it has five external zippered pockets for storing books and a padded compartment for keeping laptops safe.
The Adidas backpack is made of high-quality polyester, and the surface of the bag has reflective accent panels that are useful when traveling and hiking. The padded sleeves, water bottle pockets, and internal organization pockets make the children ready for school.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Ideal for heavy loads
- Lightweight
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- External side pockets for easy access
- Padded back panel
Cons
- Some may find the zippers noisy
- May be bigger than expected
"I've been using this backpack for office use and travel, and I can vouch for its functionality and comfort. It is spacious and easily accommodates my laptop, binders, and other essentials. The soft lining in the pockets is also thoughtful, preventing my devices from getting scratched up."
12. Best Travel-Friendly:Makukke School Backpacks
Here’s a backpack for students who like to add a dash of color to their everyday school look. This everyday backpack by Makukke has a padded laptop pocket to protect your laptop from damage, and its anti-theft back pocket helps keep your child’s essentials safe. The bag can also be attached to a trolley with its luggage strap, eliminating the need to carry it when traveling.
Its organizational features include three compartments in the front and two side pockets, making it adequately spacious and convenient to store your things. In addition, it has two main compartments with pockets inside the backpack to facilitate systematic storage of school supplies.
Pros
- Made of waterproof nylon
- Comfortable handle
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Holds a 15.6-inch laptop
- Travel-friendly design
- Available in multiple solid colors
Cons
- Might only support spot-cleaning
- Quality of the zipper could have been better
"Thanks to the padded shoulder straps, my daughter can carry this bag without shoulder strain. The various pockets are a bonus. I got a lighter color, so I need to clean it often, but it has been pretty great for casual use."
13.Best Durable: Bagsmart Laptop Backpack
This one can be the right option if you’re looking for a large but compact backpack. Its water-resistant, durable polyester fabric makes it suitable for versatile and long-term use.
It has a lot of compartments with self-locking zippers, providing ample space to store laptop, gadgets, money, books, clothes, and more.
The EVA foam-padded pocket offers sufficient protection for your laptop, and its anti-theft hidden back pocket allows you to store valuables conveniently. The high-quality backpack also comes with a front compartment for easy accessibility and a power bank connectivity mechanism for charging your phone on the go.
Pros
- Combines style and functionality
- Padding on the back for adequate back support
- Adjustable and breathable shoulder straps
- Cushioned top handle
- Large side pockets
- USB charging port
Cons
- May not hold the shape
- Top handle may not be highly durable
"Its spacious, organized interior and durable design have made it a great choice for my daughter. Her school books and supplies can get pretty heavy, but the backpack endures the load well and stays comfortable on her shoulders. She also enjoys the soft pink color."
14.Best Anti-Theft: Kalidi Laptop Backpack
Suitable for traveling, the Kalidi school backpack could fit a 15.6-inch laptop with its roomy interior and structured shape. There are eight internal pockets, a main compartment separated by another smaller compartment, and two elastic side pockets in and outside the backpack to hold a water bottle or an umbrella. It features an anti-theft pocket in the back to hide valuable items. Tested by several reviewers, this versatile backpack has a top handle and adjustable shoulder straps for easy lifting. Made from scratch-resistant nylon material, this backpack is available in various pastel colors. The capacity of the backpack is 17L, and it measures 16.56×11.8×5.5 inches and weighs 1.32lb.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Breathable padded shoulder straps
- Even weight distribution
- Padded compartment for laptop
Cons
- Zipper might get jammed
- Might not be suitable for elementary school students
"This backpack is spacious enough to fit all my school essentials, along with the laptop. However, some small items get lost in the deep inner pockets. Nonetheless, it's pretty practical, as the durable straps can take the entire load without compromising my comfort."
15.Best Cushioned: Acer Travel Laptop Backpack
Suitable for a 15.6-inch laptop, this parent-recommended black backpack combines a glossy and matte polyester body with padded shoulder straps, a front zipper pocket, and two side pockets. There is a notebook compartment, a tablet compartment, and cushioned back support to allow your child to carry the backpack with ease. Moreover, the functional backpack has a top handle for easy grabbing. It measures 16.93×11.42×3.54 inches and weighs 0.93lb.
Pros
- Durable
- Allows easy organization
- Water-repellant
- Compact
Cons
- Zipper might be flimsy
- Might be difficult to maneuver the clasps
"I really appreciate how comfortable this backpack is, even when packed with heavy items. However, I do wish it had a water bottle pocket. Still, I like how it looks and how well it has held up over time."
16.Best Spacious: Ronyes Unisex College Backpack
The stylish, casual backpack can fit 13 to 16-inch laptops easily and offers a huge interior space with one large zipper pocket, including a padded laptop compartment. It has padded adjustable shoulder straps, a smart front-flap look with leather belts, and front and middle zipper pockets. There are two side pockets to fit a water bottle easily. Available in many colors, this backpack also has an external USB with a built-in charging cable. The dimensions of the backpack are 12x17x5.5 inches, and it weighs 1.45lb.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable to carry
- Waterproof
- Easy to clean
- Durable
Cons
- Buttons might fall off
- Some may find the material thin
17. Best For Comfortable:Scione School Backpack
The Scione backpack is stylish and comfortable, with a padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps. The backpack includes a separate tote bag to hold lunch boxes and snacks and a small pouch to store pens and stationery. In addition, the backpack’s large compartment can hold books, and the side pockets can hold water bottles and umbrellas.
Scione backpack also comes with a waterproof cover to keep your belongings dry when it rains. It is made of a lightweight canvas with polyester lining, and its USB charging port, high-quality zippers, and pockets for organizing all your essentials make it an ideal backpack for traveling and hiking too.
Pros
- Insulated lunch bag
- Compact design
- Large capacity
- Padded laptop compartment
- Anti-bacterial fabric
- Machine washable
- Affordable price
Cons
- May shrink upon washing
- May get dirty easily
"It fits plenty of books without bulking up, and the USB side port is great when my phone is running low on charge. Also, the handy rain cover is great for sudden downpours; it has saved my belongings from getting wet more than once."
18. Best Secure:Joymoze Classic Backpack
The Joymoze backpack has roomy compartments with several pockets to store their essential and favorite school supplies. It has six slip pockets, two pen sleeves, and exterior front zipper pockets to help your child organize books and stationery. The adjustable padded shoulder straps provide comfort while carrying, and the front chain adds a fashionable look and makes your children excited to go to school.
The backpack is made of high-quality water-resistant polyester and sturdy nylon zippers with metal sliders. A hidden anti-theft pocket helps store valuables safely, and the durable backpack also comes with a USB port.
Pros
- Anti-tear material
- 6 inches laptop sleeve
- Two side pockets
- Flexible zippers
- Two reflective strips for safety
- Rolling suitcase strap
- Hands-free headphone hole
Cons
- Ribbon may come undone easily
- Fabric may be thin
"This backpack has proven itself reliable for my child. It is stylish and comfortably stores all her school essentials. The charging port is a bonus as it keeps her devices charged. Overall, it handles daily wear and wash pretty well."
19.Best For Outdoor: 5.11 Tactical Backpack
The 5.11 store backpack is made of durable 1050D nylon and designed with an adjustable height sternum strap, a contour yoke shoulder strap, external compression straps, and self-repairing zippers. It has 29 inner and outer compartments, dual mesh pockets in the main compartment, a front lower pocket with internal slip, and zippered pockets to organize the required stuff.
The multi-slot admin compartment, flag patches, and glove-friendly pull tabs make it suitable for outdoor activities and adventures too.
Pros
- Roomy main storage compartment
- Water-resistant fabric
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Hook and loop name tape
- Hydration pocket
- Available in two sizes
Cons
- Some may find the backpack heavy
- Laptop access may be inconvenient
"I always feel comfortable carrying this backpack because it distributes the weight evenly. Its storage space is satisfactory for my requirements. Plus, it is pretty durable and versatile."
20. Best Eco-Friendly:Camtop Backpack
Unlike boring standard backpacks, the tried-and-tested Camptop backpack is designed with unique patterns and color combinations. The main compartment can hold books, and the front zippered accessory pocket can hold school supplies such as erasers, glue sticks, and other stationery.
It also includes an eco-friendly lunch kit that can hold lunch containers, snacks, and juice boxes. The outdoor backpack is made of lightweight, water-resistant polyester, and has good stitching for durability.
Pros
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Broad padded straps
- BPA-free material
- Insulated lunch kit
- Available in different colors
- Ideal for ages three to eight years
Cons
- Side pockets may be small
- Some may not like the inner lining design
"My daughter adores this backpack, especially the bento-style lunch box. The straps are pretty durable, and the array of pockets is a plus. I only wish the light color was a bit easier to clean. Still, it endures regular use well."
21.Best Tear-Resistant: Yalixian Laptop Backpack
Yalixian’s backpack features RFID anti-theft technology a U-shaped design for ventilation, and adjustable padded shoulder straps for stress relief. It also has a luggage strap that fits on the upright handle tube of a suitcase or luggage. The TSA-tested and -approved backpack also opens 180 degrees for easy packing and has dedicated space for books, a laptop, and an iPad.
It is made of high-quality polyester nylon fabric that is tear-resistant, making it ideal for use when traveling too. This school backpack also features a dedicated water bottle pocket, and the multiple compartment design allows your child to store their sports gear and other essentials conveniently. In addition, the hidden compartments offer secure storage space for essentials.
Pros
- Hands-free headphone holes
- USB charging port
- Side release buckle
- Easy-to-grab top handle
- Adjustable chest strap
Cons
- Zippers may be flimsy
- Some may find it bulky
"This backpack has impressed me with its high capacity. It also seems pretty solid and has stood tough despite rough handling. The external charger port is great for keeping my electronics fully charged, even on the go. It has been a worthwhile purchase."
How To Choose The Right Backpacks For School?
Consider the following points while buying a school backpack.
- Material: Backpacks should be made of water-resistant and durable fabric to ensure the safety of books and school accessories.
- Pockets and compartments: Backpacks with spacious compartments, water bottle holders, and multiple pockets help organize the books and school supplies conveniently. It also helps children find stationery easily.
- Comfort: While carrying a backpack, it is very important to make sure the load on the shoulders is reduced. Choose backpacks with padded and adjustable straps, back panels, and waist clips for comfort while carrying.
- Design: The cool designs and patterns on the backpacks make your children excited and ready to go to school.
Sofia Darkmoon, a fashion designer and illustrator, says, “The backpack you choose should reflect your child’s personality. The best backpack for a child will be one they choose themselves. Let your child choose the colors or pictures and express themselves.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What size backpack is good for high school?
If you want to carry only notebooks and additional supplies like pens and pencils, choose a smaller backpack. On the other hand, choose a bigger backpack if you want to carry a laptop in addition to the school supplies. Typically, 20 to 30 liters of capacity is sufficient for a backpack to use in high school.
2. How long should a school backpack last?
It depends on how you take care of your school backpack and whether you strictly follow the weight limit of the bag. Typically, a school backpack should last two to four years with proper maintenance.
3. How heavy is too heavy for a backpack?
If your backpack starts straining your shoulders and back, it is too heavy to carry. Therefore, if you want to carry more things, choose a time-tested backpack with a greater capacity and more compartments.
4. Are school backpacks anti-theft?
Yes, some school backpacks are anti-theft to keep your belongings safe from thieves. Look for features such as lockable zippers and hidden compartments to ensure that your bag is anti-theft.
5. How wide should the shoulder straps of my school backpack be?
A shoulder strap should be wide enough to not strain your shoulders while carrying the backpack. Typically, it should be one to 1.5 inches wide for better comfort.
6. Are school backpacks water-resistant?
Most backpacks are water-resistant to keep your school supplies protected from sudden weather changes.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah has carefully compiled this list of the best backpacks for school based on user reviews and product features. These comfortable and durable bags come with features such as headphone holes, USB ports, waterproof and dustproof materials, comfortable straps, and sufficient storage space. These best-selling bags ensure your child can comfortably carry all their essentials to school. He has also included a buying guide to help you make an informed choice.
A cool backpack is a must-have for every school-going child. To narrow down your search on a suitable option, look for those made of durable materials and ones that feature pockets and compartments to help your child organize stuff. School students generally carry many books and stationery items in their bags, so pick a quality-tested bag that comes with adjustable and padded straps to relieve shoulder pain. Further, the backpack should be water-resistant material and feature quality zippers.
Infographic: Selection Tips For A School Backpack
School backpacks are essential for students to carry their books, electronic devices, water bottles, and other school supplies. The backpack must be durable and also have a trendy design. Learn what more vital features you must check for in a school backpack in the informative infographic below.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Backpack Safety.
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/backpack.html
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