As the new academic year sets in, comes the exciting possibility of spending on a new backpack. Start your search here for the best backpacks, where we feature suggestions for different ages, all boasting a clean silhouette from trusted brands. Click here for more Back to School offers from Amazon
1. Best Overall: JANSPORT Unisex Big Student Backpack
Jansport is a household name when it comes to school bags. The Big Student Backpack is for those who are expecting to attend classes with thick books and a 15-inch or smaller laptop this year.
2. Best for High School Students: Herschel Supply Co. Classic XL Backpack
If you prefer a classic backpack silhouette over a boxy look, then consider the Herschel Classic XL bag. The bag easily fits binders and folders, and a 15-inch laptop if needed, without compromising on style.
3. Best Budget: Himawari School Waterproof Backpack
Coming in over 40 colours, from all-black to pastels, the Himawari waterproof backpack boasts scratch-resistant nylon fabric and leather accents. Its main compartment with double-zipper closure fits a 13-inch laptop along with books, while the front zipper pocket is spacious enough to accommodate sunglasses, wallet, power bank and more.
4. Best Backpack Set: Camtop School Backpack Set
Looking for a reasonably sized, colourful schoolbag? This Camtop backpack set is probably your best bet for a middle schooler. Patterned with green cacti on a white polyester fabric, the book bag comes with two matching accessories – an insulated lunch bag and a pencil case – all with cream canvas handles.
5. Best for University Students: Fjällräven Kånken 15″ Backpack
A Fjällräven Kånken bag lasts for years to come, so if you have an adjustable budget, consider investing in this timeless piece. It’s made from Kånken’s defining Vinylon F fabric – a synthetic fibre that makes the bag resilient and durable.
6. Best Hybrid Backpack: Kenneth Cole Vegan Leather 15.6” Laptop & Tablet Bookbag
A refined leather backpack is hard to resist, like this Kenneth Cole vegan leather accessory. Unlike our previous picks, this bag has a special compartment for your wallet, reinforced with RFID (radio frequency identification) blocking technology to keep your credit and debit cards safe from data theft.
7. Best for Preschool Students: Spring Country Children Casual Daypack Book Bag
If your little one is off to kindergarten this September, the Spring Country book bag for preschoolers should serve well. According to the manufacturer, it fits books, binders, plush toys, stationery supplies and snacks. Inside, there’s a personal name card sleeve for your child, while the exterior has night light reflective panels to ensure their safety.
8. Best Trolley Bag: J World New York Sunrise Rolling Backpack
Trolley bags give your kids the option to alternate between a backpack and a roller, when the load becomes too heavy for the shoulders. J World New York’s rolling backpack runs quietly on sturdy rubber wheels, with a scrape shield at the bottom of the bag to prevent wear and tear from rough terrain.
9. Best Trolley Bag Set for Young Students: HTgroce Trolley School Bag for Kids and Students
This rolling backpack is a few inches smaller, and is designed for elementary school students. Your child is all set for the first day of the term with their own matching lunch bag and pencil case that come included.