10 Best Backpacks for College Students

Students must bring many supplies, tools, and books to college. So, fashion bags are no longer suitable for college students.

At the university, the new backpack is a good support product for students because it will help them carry the necessary items when going to school.

A good backpack needs to be functional, durable, reasonably priced, and provide comfort to the user. In this article, we will introduce to you the top ten backpacks that many college students love.

Our Top Picks:

After much testing, I found that each product on our list has valuable and unique features. So, I will review in detail each specific one right in the section below.

1. AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack – Best for Overall

Important Specifications

• Brand: Amazon Basics
• Dimensions: 13.39 x 7 x 19.29 inches
• Item Weight: 1.98 pounds
• Country of Origin: ‎Indonesia

Product’s Highlight

I bought this backpack in mid-2020, and it works great so far. This version has accompanied me through many flights, picnics, and long trips. Even so, I did not detect any damage or tatters.

I can easily stuff my clothes and personal belongings into my backpack during my travels. There are different compartments so I can organize my stuff as logically as possible.

Its large compartments hold a lot of clothes, while the small compartments are convenient for accessories.

The laptop area has an included pad to reduce shock and better protect electronics. I’ve never been worried about the strap of the product breaking, and it’s sturdy. After a long time, the zipper of the largest compartment got clogged, and I had to replace it with a new one. Yet, it’s not that big of a deal bothering me. I bought this backpack for my son to bring to college, and he loves it too.

Today’s Best Deal:

What We Like

• Enduring
• Low price
• Multiple compartments
• It has an anti-shock cushion for the computer

Thing To Consider

• Zipper malfunction after a while

2. Matein Travel Laptop Backpack – Best for Safety

Important Specifications

• Brand: YoTwo
• Dimensions: 18 x 12 x 7.8 inches
• Item Weight: 1.56 pounds
• Country of Origin: ‎China

Product’s Highlight

I’m often prone to chronic back pain, and I’ve been trying hard to find a backpack supporting my back. Fortunately, I found the Matein Travel Anti Theft Slim Durable Backpack. It has soft, breathable padding in the back, allowing me to avoid shoulder pain in the long run.

During my travels, this backpack has helped me a lot. The large compartments are great for clothes and essentials. Meanwhile, the straps won’t cause the bag to drop even when I’m full of stuff inside.

In particular, this backpack is equipped with a secret key compartment to store valuables. The thieves will not be able to damage you.

Also bringing this backpack to school is also a great option. You can walk and charge your tablet or phone through the convenient USB port.

Its significant disadvantage is that the pad in the computer compartment is off the bottom. I had to be extremely careful every time I put my backpack on the ground to avoid damaging my laptop.

Today’s Best Deal:

What We Like

• Can be waterproof
• There’s a secret drawer
• Provide a USB charging port
• Good support for back and shoulders
• Many compartments with different sizes

Thing To Consider

• It does not hold computers larger than 16 inches
• No padding at the bottom

3. JanSport SuperBreak One – Best for Multiple Colors

Important Specifications

• Brand: JanSport
• Dimensions: 9 x 5 x 1 inches
• Item Weight: 12 Ounces

Product’s Highlight

The backpack I received was exactly as described by the manufacturer. I used it every day during my college days until now. Although I’m not a careful person, the backpack has yet to show any significant signs of damage.

I can carry many things in my backpack during travel trips with friends. On one occasion, I even had my coffee maker in my bag.

All my school books and laptop can fit in it. Personal items and snacks for my daily training or work sessions can be available inside this backpack.

This product has many different colors for you to choose from when purchasing. There are models in bright colors with darker designs.

Depending on your preferences, you can choose backpacks with mysterious galaxy colors, bright yellow, or soft floral motifs. I bought one with the army motif, which stands out in my class.

Today’s Best Deal:

What We Like

• Convenient
• Long life
• Lightweight
• Many different models

Thing To Consider

• Hand wash only
• No side pockets for water bottles

4. Adidas Excel 6 Backpack – Best for Lifetime Warranty

Important Specifications

• Brand: Adidas
• Dimensions: 10.25 x 12.75 x 19 inches
• Item Weight: 1.37 pounds
• Country of Origin: Cambodia

Product’s Highlight

The Adidas Excel 6 Backpack is a backpack product I absolutely love. I had to buy this backpack a second time after my old one broke after four years. Luckily, it is my great choice.

Its capacity falls between 30 and 32 lt. So, the ample space inside the backpack allows you to carry your belongings and tools comfortably. You will have enough essential items throughout the day of study and work.

I’m most satisfied with the small drawer at the top of the backpack. I can put lipstick, a mirror, and medicine there; it allows me to get things quickly.

I also get my backpack dirty occasionally, but a damp cloth can solve this problem. The product’s straps are also a great plus. The clever construction of the straps helps reduce the weight you feel when you carry the backpack on your shoulder. They are also very sturdy and not easily damaged.

Today’s Best Deal:

What We Like

• Lifetime warranty
• Easy to clean
• Durable straps
• Large capacity
• Genuine

Thing To Consider

• The area near the zipper is accessible to scratch

5. JanSport Cool Student Backpack – Best for Iconic Design

Important Specifications

• Brand: JanSport
• Dimensions: 17.5 x 13 x 1 inches
• Item Weight: 1.31 pounds

Product’s Highlight

I wanted a small backpack to carry my school and sports stuff. And I made no mistake in buying the JanSport Cool Student Backpack.

This backpack is just the right size to carry my everyday essentials. It is not too heavy, very flexible, and easy to move.

The biggest plus I noticed in this product is its excellent ergonomic design. Shoulder straps have an S-shaped shape and soft padding to help users not feel uncomfortable. I didn’t have any shoulder pain even after I packed my backpack.

Product capacity is just enough to carry my 15-inch laptop or large tablet.

In addition to the computer compartment, the backpack has another large case to hold books and a few small items. The side compartment is also handy for storing water bottles. If you have a larger laptop, choose larger sizes to fit.

Today’s Best Deal:

What We Like

• User-friendly
• Prestigious brand
• Ergonomic Design
• Small and easy to use

Thing To Consider

• Hand wash required

6. High Sierra Loop-Backpack – Best for a Suspension System

Important Specifications

• Brand: High Sierra
• Dimensions: 14.57 x 20.08 x 7.09 inches
• Item Weight: 1.2 pounds

Product’s Highlight

It often rains where I live, and I was extremely pleased with the High Sierra Loop-Backpack. This backpack offers excellent water resistance. I can go through heavy rains without worrying about water seeping in, damaging my computer, and affecting my books.

This feature allows you to clean the backpack. I gently wipe the bag with a damp cloth whenever it gets dirty. The stains will quickly disappear from their surface.

Many drawers are also a big plus for the product. My books, personal belongings, and Chromebook have separate storage areas inside the backpack. I can keep my things extremely organized and easy to access.

When I carry the backpack on my shoulder, I also feel comfortable. The strap can be adjustable to my liking, so I did not feel any discomfort. My shoulders are no longer red or blistered from using this backpack.

Today’s Best Deal:

What We Like

• Simple cleaning
• Various drawers
• Good waterproof
• The strap is easy to adjust

Thing To Consider

• The zipper is easy to break
• The size is a bit small

7. Carhartt Legacy Backpack – Best for Zippered Exterior Organization

Important Specifications

• Brand: Carhartt
• Dimensions: 13.39 x 7 x 19.29 inches
• Item Weight: 1.98 pounds

Product’s Highlight

From the first time I tried the Carhartt Legacy Standard, I immediately fell in love with the valuable features.

Careful and beautiful seams make the backpack worthwhile. The material that makes the product has good water resistance. I was surprised because my belongings were not damaged after experiencing heavy rain.

This product is highly suitable for carrying a laptop when going to school. The backpack’s computer compartment is with a support belt.

My computer is, therefore, always in a fixed position without shifting. I am also very reassured that the pads protect my laptop from accidental damage.

Some small pockets inside the backpack will help you classify your belongings more scientifically. The outer compartments of the bag all have zippers, so I often leave keys and small items inside for easy access. Its straps and back have soft air cushions, and I did not feel any pain wearing the backpack.

Today’s Best Deal:

What We Like

• Good waterproof
• Comfortable to use
• High-quality materials
• Many small compartments
• Suitable for carrying a 15-inch laptop

Thing To Consider

• Easy to wear and tear
• Need a high cost to return goods

8. Travel Laptop Backpack TSA Backpack – Best for External USB

Important Specifications

• Brand: ‎MATEIN
• Dimensions: 14 x 19 x 7.8 inches
• Item Weight: 1.9 pounds

Product’s Highlight

The following backpack I introduce to you is a perfect product for those who love travel. I have brought it on my travels many times, and its convenience satisfies me.

Its size is perfect for holding all my clothes and frequently used items and still fits under the plane seat.

Bringing the TSA Large Travel Backpack to school is a good choice too. It’s big enough to hold large laptops. You can also walk and charge your phone or tablet with the battery pack plugged into the included USB port on the backpack.

This backpack also includes many compartments to organize your belongings for different purposes. I felt free of pressure when the backpack was full of things.

That’s thanks to the product’s ability to distribute the force and support the strap evenly. In short, it’s a good value backpack for you to carry during college.

Today’s Best Deal:

What We Like

• Big size
• Suitable for travel
• Many compartments
• It has a convenient USB port

Thing To Consider

• Not waterproof

9. Business Travel College Backpack – Best for High-Quality Material

Important Specifications

• Manufacturer: Volher
• Dimensions: 18 x 13 x 8 inches
• Item Weight: 2.2 pounds

Product’s Highlight

It’s cleverly designed rear padding that supports ventilation will satisfy even the most demanding users. The adjustable straps also contribute to a more comfortable wearing experience.

This product is durable polyester with good water resistance.

I have continuously used this backpack for over 2 years, and it has not suffered much damage, except for a few places where the thread is chipped. Its metal zipper is solid to prevent breakage even when many items are in the backpack.

Its storage space is also huge so I can store some clothes, personal belongings, and my laptop for travel. Besides the backpack, there is also a mesh pocket for convenient water bottles.

Today’s Best Deal:

What We Like

• Large storage space
• There’s a secret drawer
• Good waterproof
• Made from high-quality materials

Thing To Consider

• Easily chipped thread
• Heavyweight

10. Modoker Vintage Backpack – Best for Multiple Compartments

Important Specifications

• Dimensions: 11.8 x 6.8 x 15.8 inches
• Item Weight: 1 pound
• Department: Unisex-adult

Product’s Highlight

The Modoker Vintage Backpack is a valuable product for use. It is suitable for me to carry my laptop and gadgets all day long. Its weight is light enough that I don’t feel any pressure when wearing it on my shoulder.

This backpack has up to 8 different compartments to divide your belongings. The main compartment allows you to carry your daily essentials and snacks.

The computer compartment fits laptops up to 15.6 inches. Meanwhile, the included pads will also protect your electronics from damage.

The hidden pocket will be where you put small tools like spare batteries or cables. I love this little storage compartment, which makes it easy to get to my USB charging cord or spare battery.

Plus, the external USB charging port is also very convenient. I bought an extra built-in battery pack to charge my phone while walking.

Today’s Best Deal:

What We Like

• High aesthetics
• Good water resistance
• Made from high-quality materials
• Provide an external USB charging port
• The computer compartment fits a 15.6-inch laptop

Thing To Consider

• The size is a bit small
• The side pocket doesn’t fit a water bottle

Buying Guides

When buying backpacks for college students, you need to consider some important factors for a high-quality backpack. Check out my specific guides.

Dimensions and compartments

For a college student, bringing a laptop to school is a regular thing. You will need to consider the size of the backpack to fit the laptop you have.

The bag for students should be about 44x30x15cm. These products will be large enough to hold your computer and everyday items.

The backpack’s large and small compartments will allow you to organize your belongings as neatly as possible.

Material

The materials used to make your backpack will determine the product’s durability. Typically, backpacks for college students will be nylon or polyester.

Make sure the fabric that makes up your bag is strong enough that it won’t come apart when carrying many heavy items.

Furthermore, the water resistance of the material is also essential. A backpack that can prevent water from affecting your contents will be very safe in the rain.

Zippers

The zipper is also a factor that you must pay attention to when choosing to buy a school backpack. You will need products with smooth zippers that allow for easy access and storage.

High-quality backpacks will provide strong and durable zippers that are less prone to damage even when your bag is full.

Backpacks with double zippers are also suitable products that you should own.

Straps and cushions

To make your backpack experience as comfortable and satisfying as possible, you’ll need to consider its padding and straps. Good products will have an ergonomic design that allows you to comfortably carry the backpack on your shoulder.

The padded back and adjustable straps will prevent shoulder, neck, and back pain, especially when wearing the backpack for a long time.

FAQs

Are backpacks still in style?

Of course, backpacks never go out of style. Backpacks for college students manufacturers are always looking for innovative ways to bring to market the most fashionable and trending products.

What does every college student need in their backpack?

It depends on the individual and gender. Usually, students will always have to bring books, computers, and phones for lessons at school.

Headphones, chargers, personal belongings, and snacks will be items that many people prepare in their backpacks.

Should you use a backpack in college?

Yes, students should use a backpack when going to college. Backpacks allow for storing many things, computers, and books they need to use during the day. Moreover, it is very convenient and avoids many health problems.

Are backpacks good for posture?

Yes, the backpack’s two straps allow for an even distribution of force and maintain the body’s natural posture. Many bags also have an excellent ergonomic design, which helps maintain correct posture when you wear them on your back.

What makes a backpack comfortable?

The most comfortable backpack will need pads to reduce the force on your body. In addition, the bag allows the straps to be adjusted, which is also an essential factor in supporting your comfort.

Conclusion

When taking classes at the university, students must have a backpack to hold laptops and personal items.

AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack – Fits Up to 17-Inch is what many young people love because of its valuable features.

If you want a durable product that provides good support for your shoulders and back, choose the High Sierra Loop-Backpack.

My detailed review of the 10 best backpacks for college and my buying guide helped you find the right one.

Do you have any questions regarding the topic of this article? With the 10 outstanding products above, which one is for you?

Would you like to contribute any other products to us? Don’t forget to leave your comments below the article, and I’m very happy to receive your reviews!

Thank you for reading!