Discover the top 13 backpacks for school in 2024 with our detailed guide. Explore reviews, key features, and recommendations to find the perfect backpack for students of all ages.
A New School Year
As the new school year approaches, finding the perfect backpack is at the top of every student and parent’s shopping list. The right backpack can make a world of difference in terms of comfort, organization, and style. Whether you’re a parent looking for a durable and functional backpack for your child, or a student searching for a stylish and practical option, this guide has you covered. We’ve curated a list of the 13 best backpacks for school in 2024, considering factors such as durability, design, and usability. Let’s dive in and find the perfect backpack to kick off the school year!
Why Choosing the Right Backpack Matters
Selecting the right backpack is crucial for several reasons:
- Comfort: A good backpack distributes weight evenly, reducing strain on the back and shoulders.
- Organization: Multiple compartments and pockets help keep school supplies organized.
- Durability: High-quality materials ensure the backpack can withstand daily wear and tear.
- Style: A backpack that reflects the student’s personality can boost confidence and enthusiasm for school.
Top 13 Backpacks for School in 2024
1. JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack
The JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack is a classic choice known for its durability and timeless design. It features a spacious main compartment and a front utility pocket with an organizer, making it ideal for students of all ages. The backpack is made from high-quality polyester, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use.
Key Features:
- Spacious main compartment
- Front utility pocket with organizer
- Durable polyester construction
- Padded shoulder straps
- Available in multiple colors and patterns

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Durable and long-lasting | Limited padding for heavier loads |
Lightweight and comfortable | No laptop compartment |
Variety of colors and designs | Basic design lacks extra features |
Affordable price | Single main compartment |
Why We Recommend: “The JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack is a reliable and affordable option for students who need a no-nonsense, durable backpack that can handle everyday school activities.”
2. Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack
The Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack combines classic mountaineering style with modern functionality. It features a padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve, front pocket with a hidden zipper, and internal media pocket. This backpack is perfect for high school and college students who need to carry their laptops and other essentials in style.
Key Features:
- Padded and fleece-lined 15” laptop sleeve
- Front pocket with hidden zipper
- Internal media pocket with headphone port
- Magnetic strap closures with metal pin buckles
- Air mesh back padding

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Stylish and unique design | Higher price point |
Excellent laptop protection | Not suitable for younger children |
Comfortable back padding and straps | Magnetic closures can be finicky |
Multiple organizational features | Heavier than other backpacks |
Why We Recommend: “The Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack is perfect for students who need a stylish and functional backpack that provides excellent laptop protection and organization.”
3. Fjällräven Kånken Laptop Backpack
The Fjällräven Kånken Laptop Backpack is a stylish and practical option for students who need to carry their laptops. Made from durable Vinylon F fabric, it features a padded laptop compartment, ergonomic shoulder straps, and a spacious main compartment. Its unique design and quality construction make it a popular choice for students of all ages.
Key Features:
- Padded 15” laptop compartment
- Ergonomic shoulder straps
- Durable Vinylon F fabric
- Front zippered pocket and side pockets
- Reflective logo for safety

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Durable and weather-resistant fabric | Expensive |
Stylish and iconic design | Limited internal organization |
Comfortable shoulder straps | Can be too small for high school/college |
Reflective logo for added safety | Basic padding for laptop compartment |
Why We Recommend: “The Fjällräven Kånken Laptop Backpack offers a combination of durability, style, and functionality, making it a great choice for students who need to carry their laptops and other essentials.”
4. Nike Brasilia Training Backpack
The Nike Brasilia Training Backpack is perfect for students who need a spacious and durable bag for school and extracurricular activities. With its multiple compartments and water-resistant material, this backpack keeps your belongings organized and protected. The padded shoulder straps and back panel ensure comfort even when carrying heavy loads.
Key Features:
- Spacious main compartment
- Water-resistant material
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Padded shoulder straps and back panel
- Stylish design with Nike branding

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Spacious and versatile | No dedicated laptop compartment |
Durable and water-resistant | Can be bulky for smaller students |
Comfortable to wear | Limited color options |
Great for sports and school use | Higher price point compared to basic models |
Why We Recommend: “The Nike Brasilia Training Backpack is ideal for active students who need a versatile and durable bag for both school and sports activities.”
5. Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Backpack
: The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Backpack is built for durability and comfort. It features a water-repellent front pocket, a padded laptop sleeve, and adjustable HeatGear shoulder straps. The backpack’s ergonomic design and ample storage make it perfect for high school and college students.
Key Features:
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Water-repellent front pocket
- Adjustable HeatGear shoulder straps
- Ergonomic design
- Large main compartment

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Durable and water-repellent | Limited color options |
Comfortable HeatGear shoulder straps | Higher price point |
Spacious and organized compartments | Can be bulky for smaller students |
Great for sports and school use | No built-in USB port |
Why We Recommend: “The Under Armour Hustle 5.0 Backpack is perfect for students who need a durable, comfortable, and spacious backpack for their daily activities.”
6. Vera Bradley Campus Tech Backpack
The Vera Bradley Campus Tech Backpack is a stylish and functional choice for students. It features a padded laptop compartment, multiple pockets for organization, and comfortable padded straps. The signature Vera Bradley patterns add a touch of personal style.
Key Features:
- Padded laptop compartment
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Comfortable padded straps
- Signature Vera Bradley patterns
- Durable quilted fabric

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Stylish and unique designs | Higher price point |
Comfortable and functional | Limited to specific styles |
Durable quilted fabric | Can be too colorful for some preferences |
Multiple organizational pockets | Limited to one size |
Why We Recommend: “The Vera Bradley Campus Tech Backpack combines style and functionality, making it a great choice for students who want to express their personality while staying organized.”
7. Adidas Prime 6 Backpack
The Adidas Prime 6 Backpack is designed for durability and comfort. It features multiple zippered compartments, a padded laptop sleeve, and LoadSpring shoulder straps to ease the weight on your shoulders. The backpack is perfect for students who need ample storage and a stylish design.
Key Features:
- Multiple zippered compartments
- Padded laptop sleeve
- LoadSpring shoulder straps
- Water-resistant base
- Stylish design with Adidas branding

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Durable and water-resistant base | Higher price point |
Comfortable LoadSpring shoulder straps | Can be bulky for smaller students |
Spacious and organized compartments | Limited color options |
Stylish design with Adidas branding | No built-in USB port |
Why We Recommend: “The Adidas Prime 6 Backpack is a great choice for students who need a durable, comfortable, and stylish backpack for their daily activities.”
8. The North Face Jester Backpack
The North Face Jester Backpack is a versatile and durable option for students. It features a padded laptop sleeve, a front organization compartment, and a bungee system for additional storage. The FlexVent suspension system provides maximum comfort and support.
Key Features:
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Front organization compartment
- Bungee system for extra storage
- FlexVent suspension system
- Durable polyester construction

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Comfortable FlexVent suspension system | Higher price point |
Durable and spacious | Can be bulky for smaller students |
Multiple organizational compartments | Limited color options |
Stylish and versatile design | No built-in USB port |
Why We Recommend: “The North Face Jester Backpack offers durability, comfort, and ample storage, making it a perfect choice for students of all ages.”
9. SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack
The SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack is designed for students who need to carry their laptops safely. It features a TSA-friendly laptop compartment, multiple pockets for organization, and a rugged construction. The padded shoulder straps and airflow back system ensure comfort during long school days.
Key Features:
- TSA-friendly laptop compartment
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Rugged construction
- Padded shoulder straps
- Airflow back system

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
TSA-friendly laptop compartment | Higher price point |
Durable and rugged construction | Can be bulky for smaller students |
Comfortable shoulder straps and back | Limited color options |
Multiple organizational pockets | No built-in USB port |
Why We Recommend: “The SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack is perfect for students who need a durable, comfortable, and secure backpack for their laptops and other essentials.”
10. Targus Drifter II Backpack
The Targus Drifter II Backpack is a robust and spacious backpack designed to carry a 17-inch laptop. It features multiple compartments for organization, padded shoulder straps, and a durable design. This backpack is ideal for college students who need to carry heavy loads and protect their electronic devices.
Key Features:
- Fits up to 17-inch laptops
- Multiple compartments for organization
- Padded shoulder straps
- Durable design
- Water-resistant base

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Fits large laptops up to 17 inches | Higher price point |
Durable and water-resistant | Can be bulky for smaller students |
Comfortable shoulder straps | Heavier than other backpacks |
Multiple organizational compartments | Limited color options |
Why We Recommend: “The Targus Drifter II Backpack is ideal for college students who need a durable, spacious, and secure backpack for their large laptops and other essentials.”
11. High Sierra Swerve Laptop Backpack
The High Sierra Swerve Laptop Backpack is designed for students who need to carry their laptops and other school supplies. It features a fully padded laptop compartment, a dedicated tablet sleeve, and multiple pockets for organization. The padded back panel and shoulder straps provide comfort during long school days.
Key Features:
- Fully padded laptop compartment
- Dedicated tablet sleeve
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Padded back panel and shoulder straps
- Durable construction

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Durable and spacious | Limited color options |
Comfortable padded straps and back | Higher price point |
Multiple organizational compartments | Can be bulky for smaller students |
Dedicated tablet sleeve | No built-in USB port |
Why We Recommend: “The High Sierra Swerve Laptop Backpack is a great choice for students who need a durable, comfortable, and organized backpack for their laptops and other school supplies.”
12. Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack
The Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack is a lightweight and versatile backpack perfect for students. It features a padded laptop and tablet sleeve, a front organization pocket, and side mesh pockets for water bottles. The breathable back panel and shoulder straps ensure comfort throughout the day.
Key Features:
- Padded laptop and tablet sleeve
- Front organization pocket
- Side mesh pockets for water bottles
- Breathable back panel and shoulder straps
- Lightweight and durable

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Lightweight and versatile | Smaller capacity |
Comfortable and breathable design | Higher price point |
Durable construction | Limited color options |
Multiple organizational pockets | No built-in USB port |
Why We Recommend: “The Osprey Daylite Plus Backpack is perfect for students who need a lightweight, comfortable, and versatile backpack for their daily activities.”
13. AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack
The AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack offers great value with its spacious compartments and durable design. It features a padded laptop compartment, multiple pockets for organization, and comfortable shoulder straps. This backpack is ideal for students on a budget who need a reliable and functional bag for school.
Key Features:
- Padded laptop compartment
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Comfortable shoulder straps
- Durable construction
- Affordable price

Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Affordable price | Basic design |
Durable and spacious | Limited color options |
Comfortable shoulder straps | No built-in USB port |
Multiple organizational compartments | Can be bulky for smaller students |
Why We Recommend: “The AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack offers excellent value for money, making it a great choice for students who need a durable and functional backpack without breaking the bank.”
Practical Tips for Choosing a School Backpack
- Assess Your Needs: Consider what you need to carry daily and choose a backpack with appropriate compartments and features.
- Check the Fit: Ensure the backpack fits comfortably, with padded straps and a design that distributes weight evenly.
- Consider Durability: Look for backpacks made from high-quality materials that can withstand daily use.
- Evaluate Style: Choose a design and color that reflects the student’s personality and preferences.
- Read Reviews: Review feedback from other buyers to gauge the backpack’s performance and durability.
Wrap up
Selecting the right backpack for school is essential for comfort, organization, and style. The 13 backpacks highlighted in this guide offer a range of features and designs to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a simple, durable backpack or one with advanced features for laptop protection, there’s something for everyone. By considering your specific requirements and budget, you can find the perfect backpack to make the school year successful and stylish.
FAQs
1. What is the most important feature to look for in a school backpack?
- The most important feature is comfort. Look for padded shoulder straps, a supportive back panel, and a design that distributes weight evenly.
2. How can I ensure my backpack lasts the entire school year?
- Choose a backpack made from durable materials like polyester or nylon, and avoid overloading it with heavy items to prevent wear and tear.
3. Are there backpacks specifically designed for carrying laptops?
- Yes, many backpacks come with padded laptop compartments, such as the Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack and the SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack.
4. Can I find a stylish backpack on a budget?
- Absolutely! The AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack offers great value with its durable design and affordable price.
Discover more from dwhart
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.