It’s that time of year again—time for back to school shopping and the search for the perfect backpack. Whether you’re gearing up for the first day of kindergarten, the start of high school, or just need a new pack for your college courses, choosing the right backpack can make a world of difference. Let’s dive into what to look for and share some of our favorite finds from top brands such as Pottery Barn, L.L. Bean, JanSport, Simple Modern, and some great finds on Amazon finds.
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So, what should you look for in a backpack?
Size and Capacity
Ensure the backpack is appropriately sized for the user. For younger kids, a smaller, lighter bag is crucial, while older students might need something larger to accommodate textbooks, a laptop, and other essentials. Pottery Barn is known for providing multiple size options in the same pattern!
Shown: Pottery Barn Astor Bookbag
Comfort
Look for padded shoulder straps and back panels. Adjustable straps are a must for ensuring the backpack sits comfortably and doesn’t strain the back.
Shown: VASCHY Lightweight Backpack
Durability
School backpacks endure a lot of wear and tear, so choose one made from sturdy materials like high-denier polyester or nylon. Reinforced stitching and quality zippers are also important. A lot of $20 backpacks that you’ll find at mass retailers will wear out during the year, so be sure to weigh price, durability, and the need to rebuy in the future when making your backpack purchase decision.
Shown: LL Bean Deluxe Book Pack
Organization
Multiple compartments can help keep things organized. Look for features like a laptop sleeve, external pockets for water bottles, and smaller pockets for pens and other accessories.
Shown: High Sierra Loop Backpack
Style
While functionality is key, you’ll also want something that matches your (or your child’s) style. There are endless designs, from classic solids to trendy patterns.
Shown: Simple Modern Backpack
Below is a selection of our favorite brands & why:
- Pottery Barn Mackenzie Backpacks These are perfect for younger students. They come in various sizes, including mini, small, and large, to fit all ages. Plus, they have adorable designs that kids will love. You have the option to add a monogram or name to the bag, as well as buy a coordination lunch box and water bottle. They have Disney character options and some of these even glow in the dark which kids love! Check out the latest styles below from Pottery Barn!
Girls
Boys
- Simple Modern Legacy Backpack This one is stylish and functional, featuring a sleek design with ample space and organization options. It’s also made with high-quality materials, ensuring it will last. The bag is available in medium and large. The patterns on these book bags are very similar to Pottery Barn (& they also have Disney!) at a fraction of the price.
Girls
Boys
- L.L. Bean Deluxe Book Pack Known for its durability, this backpack is a great investment. It’s spacious and includes a padded back panel and shoulder straps. Ideal for older students who need to carry more items. Available in so many color options!
- JanSport SuperBreak A classic choice that never goes out of style. It’s lightweight, comes in a plethora of colors and patterns, and has a lifetime warranty. Perfect for students of all ages.
- Vaschy Classic Backpack Simple yet functional, this backpack offers a vintage look with modern features like padded shoulder straps and a laptop sleeve. This is also a great budget selection for those that love Jansport!
- Matein Travel Laptop Backpack Perfect for high school or college students, this backpack includes a USB charging port and lots of compartments. It’s also water-resistant.
- High Sierra Loop Backpack Known for its rugged durability, this backpack is great for students who need a bit more space. It also has multiple compartments for organization.
- We’ve also found a few other contenders on Amazon that stand out, have high ratings & purchase count, & come in a variety of colors.
When shopping, don’t forget to check if you can save some money by signing up for Rakuten Rewards (grab an extra 10% cash back boost with our link!) It’s easy to save enough throughout the year to pay for some of those Christmas gifts (or a treat for yourself!)
Final Tips
- Test It Out: If possible, try the backpack on in-store to ensure it’s comfortable.
- Consider Weight Distribution: Ensure the backpack fits snugly against the back and isn’t too heavy on one side.
- Maintenance: Look for backpacks that are easy to clean. Many can be wiped down or even machine-washed.
Choosing the right backpack can make heading back to school a breeze. Happy shopping, and here’s to a fantastic school year!
