Whenever there is a student, it is sure to have a backpack strapped to their back. Whether they’re on their way to the gym to sweat some curls (or whatever people are doing at the gym) or going to the library to research their college major (more so than fast), they’ll pack their stuff in a bundle. You have to think of two things as a student looking to have a backpack, however – will it fit all of your items? Is there a laptop cover so my laptop is safe? Is there room for a bottle of food.. water? We’ve rounded up the best backpacks out there and put them all here for you to pick your favorite.
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MATEIN College book bag
The best anti-theft package
The exterior of the MATEIN Backpack is made of durable, water-resistant polyester, so books and equipment are never affected when it rains or snows. The padded over-the-shoulder straps are comfortable and adjustable, and this pack comes with a little extra security to boot. You’ll get a USB charging port to keep your phone up front, and a hidden anti-theft pocket for money and devices behind your lower back. The backpack is large enough to accommodate a 15.6″ laptop and a tablet as well as a lot of books.
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Eastport XL mesh backpack
transparent selection
The Eastport oversized mesh is semi-transparent. Whether your school requires a clear bag or you prefer a lighter pack with more ventilation, this is a fun option that is never heavy but always sturdy enough for all your gear. It’s made of breathable polyester mesh material and includes an elastic front bungee to hold bike locks, hood, and other items. There are three compartments and two side beverage pockets in this inexpensive offering.
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AmazonBasics Laptop Bag
Best for large laptops
If you’re carrying a 17-inch laptop, you’ll love the spacious AmazonBasics Backpack. This large, multi-compartment bundle includes a padded laptop sleeve and mesh side water bottle pockets as well as organizational compartments for pens, keys, and phones. This is a large package that evenly distributes the weight of heavy books and electronics, and does not cause shoulder or back pain. The shoulder straps are padded, and it comes with a padded carrying handle at the top.
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JanSport Big Student Backpack
Best Classic Pack
JanSport has been manufacturing enclosures in the United States since the 1960s, and their outdoor devices are known and loved for their durability and longevity. The JanSport Student Large Pack features a dedicated 15-inch laptop compartment, front utility pocket, organizer, front pleated pocket, and fully lined back panel. Grab this premium bundle in one of 19 colors and patterns, and it’ll hold up to years of school and personal use.
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Under Armor Adult Hustle 5.0.0 Update
From class to the gym
The Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack from Under Armor is sporty and school-ready, glamorous yet functional. With a tagless design and UA Storm technology, the Hustle 5.0 rests happily on your back and battles the elements with a waterproof finish. Two large main compartments give you space to store essentials like books, gym clothes, laptops, tablets, and phones. Grab this Under Armor backpack in one of 36 colors and head back to class in style.
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YOREPEK Slim Computer Backpack
Thin cucumber
The YOREPEK Slim Computer Backpack is an excellent book bag that never weighs you down. Slim in style, YOREPEK is large enough to hold a 15.6-inch laptop, as well as books, tablets, phones, and other items. Double metal zippers are reinforced with an elastic closure to keep wallets and other valuables secure. This bundle also features USB and headphone ports to safely store your technology in your bag while listening to music or charging devices.
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High Sierra Swerve Backpack
Adjustable compression straps
Store this High Sierra backpack full as needed and use the side compression straps to clamp down on the pack, reducing your overall load. The large, multi-section design provides plenty of space for pens, tablets, keys and phones. There’s also a custom computer cover folded inside to keep your tech wrapped in a protective shield. The High Sierra is made with ballistic nylon fabric that will outlast your college or high school career.
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SWISSGEAR 1900 ScanSmart
TSA Compliant
If you fly in the friendly atmosphere between home and college, don’t miss the SWISSGEAR 1900 ScanSmart Backpack. Made of weather-resistant 1200D ballistic polyester, this bag can withstand heavy use and inclement weather. It also makes traveling a breeze. Flat mode technology allows you to fly through airport TSA checks. The inside is organized and spacious, and this large bag has no problem fitting a 17-inch laptop, as well as notebooks and other essentials.
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The North Face Jester
Rugged Backpack
The North Face Jester is as powerful as it comes. Built for the wilderness, the Jester has enough room for all your school supplies, all bundled in a waterproof material. The inner 15.4-inch laptop sleeve is padded, and there’s an additional tablet sleeve to store additional tech. If you want a bag that will last longer than your college career, this is the bag.
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Champion Manuscript Backpack
solid and simple
A simple and simple backpack that will carry everything you may need to take with you. The straps are adjustable, and there is an extra pocket in the front for small items. Nothing fancy, but it will get the job done.
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Wovoka hiking backpack
in the fresh air
Although it might be designed for long walks, it would be perfect for taking your laptop and books to school. It has a breathable mesh back to make it more comfortable to wear, and it’s also water-resistant to keep all your items dry when the sky’s open.
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Dickies Signature Backpack
traditional
It’s a timeless classic schoolbag – brown diamond, leather like bottom panel. Everyone has, at some point, seen a copy of this bag – but this is the original. There’s room for a 15.6-inch laptop too, so you’ll be able to carry all your stuff.
Our top three picks for this year
Our favorite backpack is the MATEIN college backpack (Opens in a new tab). It has a slot for just about everything, like a built-in laptop sleeve, a phone pocket, and even an anti-theft pocket for your valuables. There is also a greater choice for larger laptops, and its relatively low price makes it a very solid choice for anyone.
If you want something thinner, YOREPEK Slim Computer Backpack (Opens in a new tab) It is a compact option that also has enough space for all your gear. There is also a micro USB port on the side that you can plug the portable battery into, then use it to charge your phone or headphones.
And if you’re a frequent traveler, you’ll love the SWISSGEAR 1900 ScanSmart (Opens in a new tab). It’s large enough to hold a 17-inch laptop, clothes, and all your gear, plus it’s TSA compliant.