Of course, a fashionable backpack is important for more than just everyday wear: whether you’re heading to school or traveling the world, it’s a must-have item for every day. Style is important, but functionality is just as important. You know, something that keeps everything organized without making you feel heavy.
To find the best backpack, we tested several models to see how they stacked up in terms of capacity, comfort, and durability. Our top pick gets an A+ for affordability, versatility, and functionality. The Dakine Campus backpack took first place. We were impressed by its capacity and how comfortable it was to carry on our shoulders, thanks to its soft padding and spacious compartments. Check it out below.
This spacious campus backpack has four compartments, including a roomy main compartment with a padded compartment for an extra laptop and an interior compartment for more stuff. The outside of the backpack has three small pockets, one of which is made of fully washable insulation and is perfect for storing a lunch. The backpack also has two compartments for drinks on both sides.
The back and straps are padded for added comfort. On the downside, our testers found the padding to be too stiff and unnecessary. However, these designs help keep the weight down, especially when the pack is fully loaded.
Jansport backpacks have been popular for as long as we can remember. The classic style comes in a variety of colors and patterns, but more importantly, it’s an extremely durable canvas backpack. In our testing, we found that this backpack easily fits a few textbooks and a 15-inch laptop. We wish the laptop compartment was padded for extra protection, but we’re also glad there’s a dedicated storage area for our tech.
In addition to the laptop pocket, the bag has four external pockets of varying sizes: one the same size as the main internal pocket, a medium-sized pocket with a key clip and pen or pencil slots, and two smaller pockets for easy access to things like a phone or wallet. There’s also a drinks compartment on the outside of the bag. The padded shoulder straps are very comfortable, especially when the bag is fully loaded, but we’d like them to be a little more flexible—they’re a bit too stiff.
If you’re looking for a more sporty backpack, we recommend The North Face’s Jester Backpack. It’s longer and has more interior space than other backpacks we reviewed, and we love its padded 16-inch laptop compartment, secure zippered pocket, and key clip. This backpack is easy to carry and is ACE-certified, which was a nice surprise.
This backpack is said to be very versatile and can hold both textbooks and sports gear, so you’ll have everything you need for the day in one place. The recycled polyester material is smooth and easy to clean, so you won’t have to worry about putting wet items in it. Unfortunately, the backpack isn’t machine washable, so you’ll have to spot-clean any areas that are prone to sweating.
Our testers loved how lightweight this backpack is. When it’s empty, you’ll barely notice it on your back. Plus, this bag has plenty of storage, so you always know where your stuff is. The inside of the bag has a spacious main compartment, as well as two smaller pockets for essentials like a wallet or phone. There’s also a dedicated, padded laptop compartment to keep your electronics safe. On the outside of the bag, there’s a small pocket for smaller items. The zippers even have a carabiner clip that lets you attach a few extra items, like a large water bottle. We also like the storage compartment on the back of the bag, so you can use it as a travel bag.
The vintage look of this commuter backpack first caught our eye, but it quickly became one of our favorites thanks to its exceptional functionality. For starters, it’s made from lightweight, tear-resistant fabric and has an easy-to-clean polyester lining. It’s also loaded with all the storage features you’d need. We love that the main compartment can hold two to three textbooks and a laptop (in a padded compartment). We also love that this area has a small zippered pocket and a USB charger for charging your devices.
On the outside, there’s a medium-sized zippered pocket and a smaller pocket that’s perfect for pens and pencils. The backpack also includes two drink holders, one on each side of the pack, although they feel a little small. The padded straps make carrying everything in this backpack comfortable, and our testers liked that the straps weren’t as stiff as some other backpacks we’ve tested.
The Herschel XL is another classic choice that goes hand in hand with Jansport. This backpack comes in a variety of colors and patterns, so you’ll always find one that suits you. During our testing, we really appreciated the simple design of this backpack. It may not be the roomiest bag we’ve tested, but with an internal compartment (including a dedicated laptop compartment) and a small external pocket, it’s more than enough to hold a laptop, a couple of books, and a lunch. There’s also a drinks compartment on the side of the backpack.
We like that it’s made from lightweight but durable cotton canvas that can withstand all kinds of wear and tear and spills. It also has a sturdy back panel that doesn’t sag, even when fully loaded. Like other backpacks we’ve tested, the padded shoulder straps are a bit stiff.
If you’re looking for a durable backpack that you can use outside of school, this Eastpak bag is a good choice. It’s made from a 60% nylon and 40% polyester blend, which our testers said is particularly durable. It’s roomy without feeling bulky or heavy, and you won’t feel clumsy carrying it on your back. The interior has spacious compartments, a padded laptop sleeve, and a mesh zippered pocket. We easily fit books in the bag and were pleased with the thick, padded shoulder straps, although they were a little stiff.
The only downside is that our reviewers were very disappointed that the drink compartment on this backpack is too small. There is no room inside or outside this backpack for a water bottle.
Made from 100% recycled polyester, this backpack stands out from the crowd with its design. It’s not the standard oval shape, but rather a rectangle, with a fold-out pocket on top. It’s available in just a few colors, but it certainly looks classy and sophisticated. Its waterproofing is also impeccable, so you won’t have to worry if you spill coffee on it or get caught in the rain.
It also has all the storage features. Inside the main compartment, there are four dedicated storage compartments: a laptop compartment, a large book compartment, a small pocket for keys and other essentials, and even a mesh compartment for drinks to keep them secure. Two external zippered pockets are perfect for storing small items you want to keep handy, like your phone or wallet.
This Scandinavian-style bag is a firm favorite among Amazon shoppers, and after weeks of testing, our editors have figured out its secret sauce. Not only does it have a timeless, classic appeal, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It can be worn as a tote with the top handle or on your back like a traditional backpack.
Our testers really liked how lightweight it is. It weighs just 11 ounces, and when empty, you’ll barely notice it’s on your back. That means you’ll be able to carry heavy textbooks with more comfort, even if the straps aren’t as padded as some of the other products we’ve reviewed. Storage pockets are limited, however. The bag has one roomy interior compartment, a small exterior pocket, and two drink pockets. We especially wish it had a dedicated laptop compartment to keep your tech safe during transit.
Overall, we found this to be a versatile backpack that can be used for school, work, or travel, especially since it’s waterproof. We love that it comes in over 30 colors to choose from, allowing you to find a model that matches your unique personal style.
This durable neoprene backpack is one of the sleekest and most stylish we’ve ever reviewed, despite its small size. We tried using it as a theme park backpack, but it was too small for all of our gear. But if you’re just using it to pack essentials for a few activities, there’s still plenty of room for a few books, a 13-inch laptop, and essentials like drinks and snacks, as well as a wallet and phone.
There’s only one interior compartment on this bag, but it’s divided into two sections: one for your laptop and one for things like notebooks. We also like the water bottle compartment inside the bag, which keeps the bottle from tipping over when you set the bag down. Overall, the neoprene fabric makes this backpack a little heavier than other backpacks, even when empty, but we found the cushioning on the straps and back to be very comfortable.
If you’re looking for a luxurious look, the Kreya Aurora is the bag for you. This smooth leather bag is without a doubt one of the most beautiful bags we’ve ever reviewed. But it’s not just easy on the eyes—it also features a unique two-in-one design. Pull the straps up to use the bag as a tote—perfect for shopping or creating a sophisticated look during your summer internship—or pull the straps down to use it as a backpack. One editor loved this design feature so much, she called it life-changing. “As an editor, I’m always rushing from the office to events, and I love that it can be worn as a backpack on the way to the office, and then easily transformed into a bag after work,” she said.
The interior of this bag is not as spacious as other bags and there is no special storage space. There is only one compartment with a small zippered pocket inside for things like keys or a business card holder. The good thing is that you can definitely fit a textbook or two and a laptop in there. There is a unique phone pocket on the outside of the bag for quick access to your device.
We love the unique rectangular shape of this faux leather backpack. It’s a little heavier than other backpacks we tested, but it’s stylish and practical. The backpack has two “main” compartments, one with a zipper in the back and one in the front. The front compartment is perfect for textbooks, notebooks, and pens, while the back compartment has a padded laptop compartment and extra space for other everyday items, like gym clothes. There’s a small zippered pocket on the outside of the backpack for essentials like keys, wallet, and phone.
We also appreciate the extra design details that other backpacks don’t have. Our favorite detail is the metal feet, which make it easy to set the backpack down without it tipping over or hitting the floor. The luggage covers are also a great idea for those who travel frequently.
For teens who want pretty patterns, Pottery Barn’s LoveShackFancy collection is a great choice. This ultra-feminine blue and white print—flowers and bows, oh my—makes this bag stand out from the crowd and make it stand out. It’s more than just a stylish piece—it has three separate compartments, plus a padded laptop sleeve and two water bottle pockets. We especially like that the smallest pocket has a dedicated pen holder and a carabiner for keys—a rarity in the backpacks we’ve reviewed.
The canvas material also feels very durable. While you might be concerned about stains with such a light color, we found that the material was easy to clean. We also like how comfortable this backpack is. The mesh on the straps and back panel helps with breathability, and the straps aren’t as stiff as some other backpacks we’ve tested.
Made from eco-friendly, waterproof canvas, this backpack is super soft to the touch but durable enough to hold all your school essentials. The bag also features a top handle so you can use it as a messenger bag or wear it over your shoulder with the adjustable back strap if you’re carrying heavy items.
This practical backpack is made from thick, durable canvas. The bag has a drawstring closure under the flap, two side pockets, an interior zip compartment, and a front pocket for easy storage. Shown in khaki, other neutrals available.
If you need to carry a lot of things, it’s best to choose a backpack with multiple compartments, like this one. You’ll find a separate laptop compartment, three open pockets, a front compartment, and two stretch mesh side pockets.
The simple design of this SwissGear backpack is a classic choice. It may not be the most stylish choice, but its rugged look will always appeal to some people. We like that it has several compartments for storing larger items, as well as a front pocket with an organizer so you can store pens and pencils, a useful feature that not all backpacks have.
Despite its high price, we think this versatile backpack has a stylish and unique look. Its design is inspired by traditional camping gear, but with stylish color accents. We like the various supportive details, including the padded back panel, padded shoulder straps, and weight-balanced harness.
Stoney Clover makes some of the cutest bags and accessories on the market – just look at this hot pink one. It’s also available in a few other colors and can be customized with letter patches for an added element of fun and personalization. However, due to its small size, this bag isn’t ideal for everyday use – like carrying bulky items like textbooks or a laptop.
We filled each backpack with a variety of school supplies: laptops, notebooks, water bottles, books, and tech accessories. We also took into account all the cool features that might be useful for high school and college students. Extra pockets, a back panel, USB ports, padded shoulder straps, and dual carry handles are all invaluable in a functional backpack. The material/fabric of the backpack is also important, as the backpack will likely be subject to a lot of wear and tear, including being dropped and dragged.
You’ll see plenty of stylish backpacks that double as tote bags and leather laptop bags, as well as backpacks in bright, bold colors and floral prints. Plus, we’ve got plenty of cute pieces from popular brands like Jansport, North Face, Spraygrround, and Nike.
The #VSCOgirl trend became a TikTok sensation a few years ago. VSCO girls channel a unique vibe, including a love of pastel colors and Fjällräven Kånken backpacks. The name VSCO comes from the popular photo-editing app, and it seems like every TikTok girl is carrying a candy-colored Fjällräven Kånken backpack that resembles the app’s photo filters.
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