14 Best Backpacks for College Students, Tested & Reviewed 2024
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The best backpack for college will have to pull a lot of weight. It has to protect your delicate laptop on the way to class, house gym clothes, and even double as a carry-on for trips back home during school breaks.
To help you find the best backpacks, we tested out various popular styles from brands like Patagonia, Jansport, and Lululemon to see how much they could hold, how comfortable they felt, their durability, and cool organizational features. We also added laptops, sneakers, textbooks, and other useful school supplies to see how heavy and supportive the backpacks felt when packed. Our top pick is the North Face Jester school backpack. We were impressed by its spacious compartments and pockets and the padding and support it offers.
The best backpacks for college:
- Best overall college backpack: The North Face Jester School Laptop Backpack, $53
- Best backpack for laptops: New Crew Backpack 22L, $98
- Best backpack for travel: Samsonite Leather Convertible Backpack, $140
- Best backpack with padded straps: WONHOX Large Backpack, $35
- Best water-resistant backpack: Rains Reflective Waterproof Backpack, $95
Best overall backpack: The North Face Jester School Laptop Backpack
The North Face is a brand that understands how to make backpacks and the Jester is one their best-sellers. It comes with a padded laptop sleeve, and plenty of mini zip and slip pockets are in the front compartment. It stands upright on its own, so you can effortlessly load and unload it. It’s also endorsed as ergonomic by the American Chiropractic Association. (That means it’s extra comfortable to carry.)
What we love: “This is hands down one of the best North Face backpacks I’ve ever tried,” says Shauna. “I even take it with me on vacations and camping because it has many pockets and storage spaces (three interior zip pockets, three exterior slip pockets). The extra padding on the back panel feels super soft, and the shoulder straps are smooth and sturdy. The exterior side pockets come with adjustable buckle straps, which means any size water bottle can fit nicely and securely.”
- Pros: ✓Two-webbing top handles for easy movement ✓ Fits up to a 15-inch laptop ✓ Straps remain comfortable with long periods of use
- Cons: ✓ Some say the padded laptop sleeve lacked adequate protection
- Color(s): 19 (varies by retailer)
- Size: 8.25 x 11 x 18.13 inches
- Materials: 600D Recycled Polyester
Best lightweight backpack: Patagonia Refugio Daypack
If you prefer wearing backpacks that feel like practically nothing, this pick will be your best bet. It comes with a bunch of features like a padded 15″ laptop sleeve, breathable back panels, a bike light clip, and a hydration hanger.
What we love: “It feels lightweight and has plenty of storage (one zippered pocket, one large main compartment), padding on the shoulder straps, and a separate zip-up laptop compartment with an internal laptop sleeve,” says Shauna. “I also love that the two exterior side pockets are large enough to fit my Stanley cup. It also comes with a top handle and adjustable buckles on the shoulder straps and front of the bag.”
- Pros:✓Extremely durable ✓ Has a durable water-repellent fabric finish
- Cons: X Some users wish it had more small pockets
- Color(s): 8
- Size: 18 x 12 x 6.5 inches
- Materials: 100% Recycled Polyester
Best backpack with small pockets for stationery: JanSport Cool Backpack
An oldie but a goodie, the cool backpack has been a fan favorite for years. Its unisex design can fit all styles. It’s made from a water-repellent material and has a front zipper pocket on the exterior. Reliable and lightweight, you can store all your school supplies—from laptops to pencils—and there is still room for some snacks. “
What we love: This backpack has a classic 90s style with a fun, updated pattern, says Teen Vogue reviewer, Brigitt Earley. “But it’s not just a style item; it’s packed with pockets, so everything has a home, and you know exactly where to find it. The small top pocket is perfect for my keys and wallet—no need to fish around. The back interior pocket fits my laptop perfectly, too. I only wish it were padded.”
- Pros:✓ Classic “old school” style ✓Many colors available ✓ Great for everyday use
- Cons: ✓ Doesn’t have a laptop pocket or pocket for water bottle(s)
- Color(s): 33 (varies by retailer)
- Size: 17 x 12.5 x 6 inches
- Materials: 100% Recycled 600d Polyester
For more styles and reviews of the best back pack of 2024 visit: https://www.teenvogue.com/story/best-backpacks-for-college