These Cute Backpacks Will Make the Daily Schlep to School Feel Effortless (2024)

If you want to prevent shoulder, neck, or back pain in the near future, we recommend investing in one of the best school backpacks.

After all, your designated tote bag, cool backpack, or laptop bagwill be your go-to accessory — the one thing you’ll be carrying day-in and day-out — so you want to make sure it vibes with your ‘fit and ticks off all the functionality boxes you need it to (like padded shoulder straps for comfort, laptop compartments, and plenty of storage pockets for all your stuff). Plus, research has shown that heavy weight on the shoulders can develop pain in several parts of the body, so it’s beneficial to get a backpack that is stylish and comfortable.

Sure, you can find plenty of the best backpacks on Amazon, but with so many options to choose from, it can easily get overwhelming. So if you are looking for something cute yet functional (we've (we've got chic leather backpack ideas, too) for traveling through school halls, that's where we come in. We browsed through hundreds of customer reviews and TikTok videos to round up top-rated backpack designs that will fulfill all your middle, high school, and even college class needs, including picks from the most popular backpack brands like Jansport, Herschel, and The North Face.

Below, shop the best backpacks for school and college to keep your daily essentials (and back-to-school supplies) secure and readily accessible.

Our Top Picks

• Best backpacks for teens: Matein Travel Backpack with USB, $32
• Best backpack for college students with laptops: Rains Backpack Mini, $95
• Best backpack for high school students: JanSport Right Pack Red Tape, $62
• Best backpack for travel: Lekesky Laptop Backpack, $35
• Best padded laptop backpack: Swissgear 1900 Laptop Backpack, $90

There’s so much to love about this found-on-Amazon backpack besides its cool camo print looks and water-proofing material that will probably outlast an unexpected downpour. We’re talking plenty of compartments for valuables and school essentials, including storage for a 13-, 14-, or 15-inch laptop, an external USB charging port (just be ready for all your friends to ask you to juice up their phones), and small inside pockets to keep your pens and bike keys from disappearing into a bottomless pit.

Pros: Comes with USB charging port, Made with durable anti-scratch fabric

Cons: Some shoppers note that the computer sleeve could use more padding.

Dimensions: 12 x 18 x 7.8 inches

Weight: 1.56 pounds

Storage: One separate compartment holds a 15.6-inch laptop, one spacious compartment for books, one compartment with several for pockets, pens, pencils, and a key fob hook

Warranty: You'll need to contact the seller directly for warranty information.

Review: “One standout feature of this backpack is its exceptional storage capacity. The main compartment securely accommodates a laptop and tablet, while the multiple pockets and organizational slots keep smaller items well-arranged."

You probably already know that the Fjällräven Kanken comes in a ton of colors and sizes, including a 17-inch laptop backpack in case you need the extra space. In addition to being a campus mainstay, it's also a regular at airports and train stations. Its compact design makes it a convenient travel companion for any post-grad road trips you have planned.

Pros: Water-resistant fabric, Available in 30+ colors

Cons: Some reviewers note the bag is too small to fit school books.

Dimensions: 10.63 x 5.12 x 14.96 inches

Weight: 0.2 ounces

Storage: One main zippered compartment, one front zippered pocket, two open side pockets

Warranty: You'll need to contact the seller directly for warranty information.

Review: “The bag is as expected. Very sturdy, [it] fits my iPad Pro with no problems."

Some backpacks are meant to blend in, this flaming hot red one is not. It's helpful, though, since no one will ever mistake theirs for yours. Finding it last-minute under a pile of clothes will be infinitely easier than a grey backpack masquerading as your carpet. Jansport's Right Pack is more basic than some other designs on this list since it only has one main compartment with an internal sleeve for a 15-inch laptop. The padded shoulder straps are a plus if you find yourself carrying your weight in textbooks on the regular.

Pros: Padded shoulder straps, Easy-to-clean suede leather bottom

Cons: Some reviewers note that there is no padding on the back to provide comfort.

Dimensions: 18 x 13 x 8.5 inches

Weight: 1.4 pounds

Storage: Internal 15-inch laptop sleeve, one large main compartment, one front organizer pocket

Warranty: You'll need to contact the seller directly for warranty information.

Review: "My daughter is starting high school, and I need a durable backpack to hold all her books; this did not disappoint me. I put 12 hard-cover writing books in [and] they were lost in the bag. There are enough pockets to hold the small things. Oh, can I forget the most important part: the laptop holder is a cushion to protect the laptop, and the back is also a cushion. I love this bag."

Herschel backpacks are statement pieces that somehow always go well with whatever you're wearing. The Settlement model is one of the brand's most popular ones: It is made from a lightweight yet heavy-duty cotton canvas that can take on all kinds of scuffs and spills, with zipper pockets and a solid back panel so your bag doesn't sag when it's loaded to the brim. We're into the versatility of this birch school backpack, but there are over 20 colors and patterns (and adorable sizes) that would look right at home whatever your personal style may be.

Pros: Crafted from a durable polyester fabric, Pebbled zipper pulls

Cons: Some shoppers note that there are no external side pockets for water bottles and umbrellas.

Dimensions: 5.75 x 12.25 x 17.75 inches

Weight: 1.33 pounds

Storage: Internal tech-safe sleeve is padded and lined with fleece, fits laptops up to 15-inches, has multiple front pockets with a key clip, one internal media pocket for your smartphone, one internal headphone port

Warranty: You'll need to contact the seller directly for warranty information.

Review: "This is an excellent backpack. I was worried it wouldn't have much space left once I put my laptop in, but the capacity is great. It also does not feel heavy when I have a lot of stuff in there. The straps are padded and don't dig in."

The brand behind some of your (and Emma Chamberlain's and Selena Gomez's) favorite leggings also makes really good backpacks. This water-repellent backpack may be on the smaller side, but it is thoughtfully designed to let you fit more with less (hi, dual front pockets!), making it a winner for daily commuters. The best part? Not only does it slide perfectly underneath any kind of seat, but it also has a carry-on-compatible sleeve should you bring it along on a trip this summer.

Pros: Designed for on-the-move, Water-resistant fabric

Cons: Users note that the straps could use more padding.

Dimensions: 11.4 x 5.9 x 16.5 inches

Weight: 23L

Storage: Exterior padded pocket fits a 16-inch laptop, exterior water bottle pocket for quick access, several interior pockets, exterior trolley-compatible sleeve

Warranty: N/A

Review: "I was hesitant at first because of the reviews on the straps, but the straps on my bag seem to stay in place. Great quality and very roomy without being bulky! 10/10 recommend!"

Don't let this slim 28-liter daypack fool you, there's plenty of storage space to house your lunch box, laptop, and books. The sturdy design is also more than capable of protecting your gear, whether you're walking shoulder-to-shoulder in a crowded hallway or accidentally knock your bag off a chair. External mesh water bottle pockets provide easy access to beverages in between classes, and there's even a sternum strap for added security and comfort!

Pros: Unique FlexVent suspension system for comfort, Padded back panels

Cons: Some shoppers note that the backpack is too small for school use.

Dimensions: 11 x 8.25 x 18.13 inches

Weight: 1 pound

Storage: Interiorpadded 15-inch laptop sleeve, one large main compartment to hold books and binders, one front compartment

Warranty: The brand claims that products have a lifetime guarantee warranty when purchased directly on thesite.

Review: "Very lightweight, I take it to campus, and I stuff my laptop, my tablets, my electronics organizer, some notebooks and pens, and my lunch—and it's so comfortable. The backpack doesn't "hang to the floor" when you wear it, it maintains its shape, and it's better for my back."

Embracing uniform dressing as you figure out your life post-college? You'll want a classic backpack that doesn't distract. This Everlane one is a bestseller for a reason: People love its timeless, minimalist design, which can hold a lot without looking bulky. Shoutout to the outer zip pockets which you'll love for stashing small items (keys, wallet, wired headphones), as well as passports and tickets on an inaugural work trip.

Pros: Travel-friendly backpack, Made with 100% recycled polyester

Cons: Some shoppers wish it came with smaller pockets on the front and top flap.

Dimensions: 17.5 x 7.25 x 12 inches

Weight: 27L

Storage: Oneexterior 15-inch laptop zip pocket, two zip-closure pockets, one external water bottle pocket, one internal water bottle pocket, two internal slip pockets

Warranty: N/A

Review: “Everlane, you’ve nailed it! I’ve been looking for a backpack that I can use for both work and travel, something that is comfortable, roomy, AND stylish—and after much searching, I’ve found it.”

L.L.Bean's ripstop-nylon laptop pack looks like it can weather just about anything — and that's because it can. (The water-repellent fabric is machine-washable, so do your worst.) Its 30-liter size is generously sized to fit textbooks, study notes, and gym clothes, with a padded laptop sleeve allowing you to pack your tech painlessly after class.

Pros: Built-in extra foam padding,Breathable mesh straps

Cons: Some customers note the fabric quality is not well-made.

Dimensions: 18.75 x 11.75 x 10 inches

Weight: 30L

Storage: Built-in organizer panel with multiple zippered pockets, padded laptop sleeve to fit laptops up to 15-inches, one large interior compartment, one exterior top pocket for each access to cell phone

Warranty: No warranty info is provided, but returns are accepted on unused products within 30 days of shipment for orders shipped within the US.

Review: "Lots of love from Washington State! Great size pack for my middle schooler, carries all the textbooks, laptop computers, and lunch. Good quality, so I know he’ll have it year after year. My 11-year-old says: “It has a lot of good pockets, and it seems light!”

This backpack set is a must-have for high school students. It comes with a matching backpack, pencil case, and cross-body bag that can be used to store lunch or gym clothes. It also comes in various colorways and prints, you can mix and match with all your outfits. The best part? It's only $35!

Pros: Padded shoulder straps, Water-resistant fabric

Cons: Some users noted that after two months of use, the shoulder straps started falling apart.

Dimensions: 16.9 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches

Weight: 1.76 pounds

Storage: One internal pocket sleeve that fits laptops and tablets that are up to 14-inches, several interior pockets to store supplies, two external side pockets, one front exterior flap pocket

Warranty: You'll need to contact the seller directly for warranty information.

Review: “The stitching is very well done. The material is sturdy but fashionable. I am very pleased with this quality product. I use this backpack as a day-pack and the medium-size one as my new favorite purse. It is beautiful and functional.”

There's a reason why college students and recent grads gravitate towards Dagne Dover's durable neoprene bags. They're spill-proof, highly giftable, and professional-looking without being fussy. Did we mention they have a special side pocket for your phone and your phone only?

Pros: 100% crafted from vegan materials, Water-resistant

Cons: Some shoppers note that the cupholder pockets are too small for water bottles.

Dimensions: 9.5 x 5 x 13 inches

Weight: 1.8 pounds

Storage: Oneair mesh tablet sleeve, two air mesh interior pockets, two zipper exterior pockets, one signature key leash

Warranty: No warranty info is provided, but returns are accepted on unused products within 30 days of shipment for orders shipped within the US.

Review: "This is my second small Dakota, so I knew what I was getting—a bag just big enough for my iPad and 32oz Nalgene, with a handy organization for all the little essentials. Everything has its place, and I love the zipper pockets along the back of the bag, where I keep my wallet (easy to move the bag with one arm and grab, but secure against my body to protect from pickpockets)."

This may not be the college backpack you had in mind, but it's so small and cute that we couldn't let you venture into a new school year without sharing. It folds up into a tiny square so you can actually leave it in the car or in your gym locker — clutch for days when you need to bring PE clothes home but your main backpack is already bursting at the seams with stuff.

Pros: Great for daily commutes, Folds up completely flat into a pouch

Cons: Customers note that it will not fit a laptop or large books.

Dimensions: 10 x 12 x 6 inches

Weight: .44 pounds

Storage: One small exterior zipper pocket, one large interior compartment

Warranty: No warranty info is provided, but returns are accepted on unused products within 30 days of shipment for orders shipped within the US.

Review: “The Mini Fold-Up Backpack was what I needed while traveling. It folds up into a small, lightweight square that easily fits in my suitcase without taking up space, then opens into a nice-sized day pack. I have the olive green color, which I love!"

Stoney Clover Lane's candy-colored backpack fits right in with #ProductivityTok's penchant for cheerful school and desk supplies to stay on top of your class load. The bubblegum pink hue alone will deliver you the energy boost you need to make it through a full day of school — even if you spent the majority of the night before scrolling through your FYP.

Pros: Polished gold-tone hardware, The fabric feels silky-soft

Cons: No separate laptop sleeve

Dimensions: 16.5 x 13 x 4.75 inches

Weight: 22oz

Storage: One small exterior zipper pocket, one large interior compartment

Warranty: You'll need to contact the seller directly for warranty information.

Review: N/A

The adventurer looking for a does-it-all bag will probably love this high-quality travel laptop backpack, complete with padded shoulder straps, a wraparound zip opening, and a breathable mesh back panel. There's enough room for a 15-inch laptop to slide into its own zippered back compartment, and there's a detachable key clip in the front pocket to hang your dorm room keys.

Pros: Made with water-resistant nylon, Padded shoulder straps

Cons: Some shoppers note that the interior compartment fills up fast.

Dimensions: 11.8 x 5.9 x 15.3 inches

Weight: 2.2 pounds

Storage: Interior organization system with zipper and slip pockets, water bottle pocket, and detachable key clip, padded zip laptop compartment with iPad slip pocket that fits up to a 15-inch laptop with magnetic locking zipper, external secure front zip pocket, external back hidden zip pocket

Warranty: Away bags and accessories are protected by a limited one-year warranty, which means that if anything breaks in your first year, they’ll fix or replace it.

Review: "I could not love this backpack more! I travel weekly, and this backpack securely rides on carry-on, [and] my laptop slides in and out of the back pocket. The big pocket can fit my smaller purse, plus all the things. The front pocket is great for your phone [and] earbuds, is great for quick access."

Stick with a backpack that prides itself on being durable and reliable, like this one from Lekesky. The water-and-tear-resistant polyester will surpass any weather and remain intact with years of use. While the main compartment can safely carry laptops up to 16 inches and even offers a hidden anti-theft pocket on the back for peace of mind. At just under $40, it's easy to understand why over 3,800 Amazon reviewers claim this bag is impossible to beat.

Pros: ✓Comfortable and stylish ✓Keeps your organized with compartments ✓Extremely affordable

Cons: ✓ Some said the material wasn’t as waterproof as they’d like

Color(s): 3

Size: 10 x 8 x 16 inches

Materials: Waterproof-and-tear-resistant Polyester

Review: "[I] love this backpack. It’s comfortable to wear and can fit a lot of essentials. I used it for a conference and was able to pack my laptop, chargers, mouse, notebooks, additional books, umbrella, water bottle, snacks, and a sandwich! Professional look with a modern feel. I love it. The pocket along the back holds my wallet and phone more securely. Perfect backpack."

Want a versatile pick you can take from the classroom to after-hour events? Go for this spacious and durable multi-functional backpack. The outside bottle holder will keep your liquids secure, and the interior mesh pocket and laptop compartment make it easy to grab what you need and nothing else.

Pros: ✓Laptop friendly ✓Two water bottle pockets ✓Great for those who need a larger bag

Cons: ✓ Many hated the straps

Color(s): 2

Size: 13 x 19 x 5.5 inches

Materials: Polyester, PVC, Nylon, Metal

Review: "I love this bag. As a chronic over-packer, my goal was to pack for a weekend, and it delivered. I was able to pack five outfits, two pairs of shoes- all my makeup and toiletries, and a laptop! Score."