9 Best Backpacks for College Students: Find One That’s Perfect for You

The best backpacks for college students aren’t just simple accessories. Sure, you want to look good carrying it around campus. After all, your choice of backpack is a chance to show off your personal style. But it also has to be up for the job of lugging around textbooks, your laptop, and everything else that helps you conquer the day.

I’ve rounded up the best backpacks for college students so you can find your perfect match. Whether you’re on a strict budget or willing to splurge on high-end options, I’ve got you covered with the top picks from trusted backpack brands. Plus, I’ve included the pros and cons of each backpack on this list to help you make a more informed choice.

This post is all about best backpacks for college students.

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List Best Backpacks For College Students

What to Look for in High-Quality Backpacks for College

The best backpacks for college are ready to take on your daily commute to classes and your trips back home. So, when you’re on the hunt for a backpack that can handle college life, there are a few key features you definitely want to keep in mind. 

Comfort Is a Necessity 

If it’s not comfortable, you’re not going to be happy. And worse, a backpack that isn’t designed for your comfort could cause back and shoulder strain. So, look for wide, padded shoulder straps that you can easily adjust to fit right on your back. A cushy back panel is super important, too. It helps evenly distribute heavy loads during long hikes across campus. Some backpacks include a hip belt for extra support if you’re hauling a bunch of books and gear. These features go beyond comfort and can prevent potential injury.

Large Enough to Stow It All

Consider how much stuff you intend to carry around. You want a backpack that can fit your textbooks, notebooks, and laptop without feeling like you’re lugging around a boulder. Also, you’re going to need, at the very least, a cozy sleeve or, better yet, a dedicated compartment for your laptop to protect it from scratches, bumps, and possible damage on your outings. 

Storage Solutions to Keep You Organized

Multiple pockets and compartments are a total game-changer for staying organized. They make it easy to stash your pens, chargers, snacks, and all those little things we tend to lose in the abyss at the bottom of our bags. Plus, it’s nice to have a side pocket for your water bottle, especially one that’s large enough and extra sturdy. 

Built to Last With Durable Materials 

When you’re shopping for your backpack, opt for durable materials. Water-resistant fabric can come in handy to keep your stuff dry if the weather decides to surprise you. And don’t forget to check that the zippers work smoothly and have pulls that are easy to use because nobody wants to deal with a stuck zipper when you’re in a rush.

Style and Color Choices You Want to Wear Everyday

Remember, a backpack isn’t just functional. It also can be a fashion statement. Whether you love sleek and minimal or bold and sporty, there’s a style out there to match your vibe. So, let your personality shine through your backpack choice. However, make sure you choose a color that you’ll enjoy tossing onto your shoulders no matter what you’re wearing that day. 

The Affordability Factor

College tuition is expensive enough even without tacking on an extra hefty price tag for your essentials and accessories! Fortunately, there are plenty of high-quality backpacks out there at an affordable price. However, if you have your heart set on a splurge choice, keep an eye out for sales, especially around back-to-school season, and you just might snag a great deal on the bag of your dreams!

What Are the Best Backpacks for College Students?

You want something stylish, functional, and durable enough to survive the hustle and bustle of campus life. So, I’ve curated the top backpacks that look great and pack in tons of convenience and comfort. Get ready to find your new favorite carry-all that’ll take you from classes to study sessions and everything in between!

Best Overall Laptop Backpack

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of style and functionality, the Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack is super cute, lightweight, and designed with multiple compartments, so you can effortlessly navigate your daily adventures from the classroom to the gym while keeping everything organized. And it’s great for travel, especially with the panel that fits over an extended suitcase handle. 

You’ll love the following features that this Calpak backpack offers.

• Laptop Sleeve: Fits a 15″ laptop 
• Tons of Storage: Multiple exterior and interior pockets to keep your essentials organized
• Hidden Security Pocket: A zippered pocket in the luggage sleeve for safe storage
• Trip Ready: Perfect for commuting or travel with its durable, scratch-resistant exterior.
• Stylish Design: Available in trendy matte colors and includes a convenient water bottle sleeve.

Pros & Cons: Overall, the Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack is an awesome choice for anyone on the go! It has so many pockets thoughtfully designed to make your life easier. However, the many storage compartments may be too small to fit bulkier items, storage cubes, or larger water bottles. Also, some customers report that the straps and handles do not hold up over time.   

Top Affordable College Backpack 

The JanSport Cool Backpack strikes a perfect balance between functionality and flair, making it ideal for school, work, or anything in between. It offers spacious compartments and a dedicated laptop sleeve, so you’ll be able to carry everything and stay organized. 

This JanSport may be easier on your wallet, but it doesn’t cut corners on providing these great features: 

• Spacious Design: Two main compartments 
• Padded laptop sleeve: Able to fit a 15-inch laptop
• Color and Pattern Choices: A variety to match your vibe.
• Durability: Sturdy fabric, zippers, and straps for long-lasting reliability.
• Convenience Essentials: Includes a water bottle pocket, front utility pocket with organizer, and ergonomic shoulder straps for comfort.
• Sleek Detailing: Synthetic leather bottom and trim 

Pros & Cons: If you’re looking for style and practicality at an affordable price, the JanSport Cool Backpack might just be your new go-to! The only heads-up I can share is about the zipper, which seems to catch easily on the flap and takes two hands to operate. 

The Popular Choice 

The North Face Women’s Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack blends style, comfort, and practicality. This bag is the perfect companion for everything from class to coffee runs, thanks to its thoughtful design. The FlexVent suspension system makes carrying your essentials comfortable, and with so many organized storage options, you won’t have to dig around to find your stuff. Plus, it just looks cool and sporty!

You’ll likely see a ton of The North Face backpacks as you walk around on campus for a reason. Here’s what makes the Women’s Recon extra special:

• Women-Specific Fit: FlexVent suspension technology with articulated shoulder straps and contoured back panel provides comfort tailored for women.
• Tons of Storage: A large main compartment with a padded tablet sleeve, zip pockets, and dual water bottle pockets 
• Durable Design: High-quality materials help this backpack withstand daily wear and tear, keeping your belongings secure.
• Comfortable Carry Options: Includes a handy top handle, a waist belt that you can remove, and a sternum strap for added support.
• Reflective Details: Stay visible in low light with reflective accents that add a safety element while on the go.

Pros & Cons: This backpack seems to have thought of almost everything for style, fit, and so much storage space (a total of 30L!). However, the shape of the Recon limits how far you can open the top zipper to load it up. Also, keep in mind all the straps that help make it a great fit will hang down around you as you walk. So, if you think you’ll find that annoying, look for a backpack with a different set-up.

Sporty, Spacious, & Eco-Friendly

Both stylish and versatile, the Patagonia Refugio Daypack might just be your new best buddy! This bag provides comfort and functionality with a spacious design and practical tech features. Plus, knowing it’s made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory adds an extra feel-good factor!

Here are a few of the benefits you get with the Patagonia Refugio Daypack:

• Spacious: 26L capacity 
• Comfortable: Includes a breathable back panel for all-day comfort.
• Tech-Friendly: Padded laptop sleeve fits up to 15″ laptops
• Great Storage: Dedicated compartments for organization.
• Eco-Conscious Design: Made from 100% recycled materials with a durable water-repellent finish.
• Hydration Ready: Includes a hydration hanger and pass-through access for convenience on the go.
• Bike Light Clip: Handy bike-light clip for your urban cycling adventures.

Pros & Cons: This backpack has a ton of helpful features, including a laptop sleeve, plenty of ways to help you stay comfortable, and a compact style that’s easy to manage if you have a smaller stature. A few customers noted that the mesh water bottle pocket doesn’t hold up to everyday use.

Top Pick for Comfort

The North Face Jester School Laptop Backpack is not just easy on the eyes; it’s designed with comfort and practicality in mind. Plus, it’s endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, so your back will likely thank you! With a sleek silhouette that stands on its own and a series of smart organizational features, you’ll be able to navigate your busy days effortlessly. 

Here’s what makes the Jester worth buying: 

• FlexVent Technology: Customized shoulder straps and a breathable back panel ensure you stay comfy even during long hauls.
• Padded Laptop Sleeve: Fits up to 16-inch laptops and provides protection against bumps and falls.
• Total Organization: Equipped with secure-zip pockets, a tablet sleeve, and a key clip, plus two water bottle pockets for hydration on the go.
• Sturdy Design: Crafted to stand up on its own, making packing and unpacking a breeze.
• Supportive Carry: Includes a sternum strap for extra stability and top handles for easy grabbing.

Pros & Cons: As compared to the Recon, also made by The North Face, the Jester is much less expensive and has a more stylish look. The external bungee is a nice extra. Use it to stow a light jacket or sweatshirt. While it’s such a great choice all around, it offers a bit less space at 22L and only provides an inside sleeve to protect your laptop.

Stylish Backpack for Students Who Love to Be Organized

The Lululemon New Crew Backpack has such a sleek look! It has smart compartments for your laptop, workout gear, and water bottle. The generous 22L capacity means there’s plenty of room for all your essentials. Plus, it’s durable and water-repellent, so you know it’ll last through your every adventure.

Here’s why the Lululemon New Crew Backpack is such an excellent choice:

• Exterior zippered pocket: Keep your valuables secure and within easy reach.
• Convenient side pockets: Grab your water bottle or snacks on the go.
• Padded interior pocket: Safely transport up to a 15″ laptop 
• Trolley-compatible sleeve: Easily attach it to your suitcase for travel.
• Water-repellent fabric: Stay confident, no matter the weather!

Pros & Cons: This backpack is more than just a stylish accessory. It’s your new organizational sidekick! Plus, you may turn a few heads with the prominently displayed Lululemon logo and the oh-so-sleek minimalist design. That said, compared to the other backpacks on this list, the fabric isn’t as durable, and the straps aren’t built for extra comfort when carrying heavier loads. Also, a few customers mentioned issues with the zipper functioning properly. 

Extra Roomy with a Clever Convertible Design 

This versatile bag can easily switch between styles! The Carhartt Convertible Backpack Tote gives you the option to carry it like a tote or wear it as a backpack. The spacious interior is great for stashing everything from laptops to books, and the durable materials ensure it’ll last through all your adventures. Plus, with its stylish look, you won’t mind showing it off!

These features make the Carhartt Convertible Backpack Tote worth considering:

• Convertible Design: Switches effortlessly between a tote and a backpack for ultimate versatility.
• Spacious Storage: Large main compartment that includes a zippered closure and a padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop
• Durable Materials: Made from 600 denier polyester with Rain Defender durable water repellent, ensuring your belongings stay dry.
• Convenient Pockets: Two exterior slash pockets and an exterior zippered pocket
• Roomy Dimensions: Size dimensions of 13” X 17” X 4” provide loads of space without being bulky.

Pros & Cons: If you like options, this convertible design may be your perfect choice! And, with a name like Carhartt, you know it’s going to be durable. The material is lightweight but not water-repellent. Also, it has adjustable straps, but if comfort is important, it may not deliver as well as you’d like. 

Classic Look, Super Durable, & Sustainably-Made

The Herschel Supply Co. Settlement Classic XL Backpack has a classic design that sure seems like it’ll never go out of style. It’s also made from sustainable materials and provides thoughtful features. It’s perfect for school, travel, or just everyday adventures. Plus, it’s durable enough to handle whatever you throw at it!

These features make this backpack a great buy:

• Made from New EcoSystem 600D Fabric, crafted from 100% recycled post-consumer water bottles.
• Stylish Tonal stripe EcoSystem Liner also made from 100% recycled materials.
• Floating sleeve that fits both 15″ and 16” laptops securely.
• Zippered closures equipped with easy-to-use Prusik cord pulls.
• Comfortable, adjustable padded shoulder straps for all-day wear.

Pros & Cons: If you’re looking for a reliable, durable, and eco-friendly backpack, the Herschel Settlement Classic XL has you covered! Customers report that it looks great and holds up well year after year. However, despite it having “XL” in the name, it may be on the small side, especially if you’re looking to carry an entire day’s worth of stuff with you. 

Extra Spacious Travel Backpack

The Light Flight Travel Laptop Backpack has all the cool features you need, including plenty of room and pockets to keep your stuff organized. Plus, it has a sleek design that’s likely to get a few compliments. It’s made for comfort, especially on long trips. Designed with travel in mind, it fits snugly under airplane seats. 

This travel backpack offers the following super helpful features:

• Extra Large 32 L Capacity: Fits laptops up to 15.6 inches and has a roomy main compartment for all your essentials, like clothes and chargers.
• Convenient Pockets: Front zippered pocket for quick access to small items, plus a hidden pocket for your phone and side pockets for a water bottle and umbrella.
• Easy Charge: Charge your phone on the go without digging for your portable charger, thanks to a USB charging port.
• Comfortable: Mesh padded shoulder straps and a back luggage strap for easy carrying, even on longer trips.
• Multipurpose: Stylish enough to be your bookbag, laptop carrier, work essential, or travel buddy!
• Affordable: About half as much as you’ll pay for well-known brands

Pros & Cons: With thousands of five-star reviews, Light Flight may not be a brand everyone will recognize, but it delivers as well or better in durability, storage space, and organizational design than many of the bigger names on this list. And it’s much less expensive, too! 

The Bottom Line on the Best Backpacks for College Students

Finding the right backpack for college comes down to whether you plan to use it for classes, travel, as a gym bag, or all three! Also, consider how much you’ll need to take with you every day. If it’s quick trips, a smaller, lightweight backpack is all you’ll need. But if you plan to pack for an entire day or a trip, focus on storage size and comfort. And, of course, remember to factor in your personal preference. Are you looking for a sleek design or a backpack that shows off your sporty side? 

To sum up, here are the most important features you should look for as you shop. The best backpacks for college students offer these benefits:

• Comfort details that include padded straps and back panels for those long days on campus or when you’re hauling a heavy load 
• Even weight distribution to balance the load across both shoulders, lessening the strain on your back. 
• High capacity with tons of space for all your essentials, such as textbooks, notebooks, laptops, chargers, and water bottles
• Organizational features that include multiple compartments and handy pockets to keep your gear tidy and accessible
• Versatile bag that matches your lifestyle on and off campus
• A look and color choice you love to wear every single day

Whether you’re hauling textbooks, tech gear, or packing to go home for break, a good backpack should make your life easier and keep you organized. So take the time to consider what works for YOU because the right pack can seriously elevate your college experience. Happy backpack hunting!

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