Backpacks are indispensable items for any elementary school student. Although it is pretty popular, only a few parents know how to choose a backpack correctly.
Are you looking for the best backpacks for elementary school? You have come to the right place! One of the ten backpacks in this article can help your child in school, entertainment, and other activities.
Let’s start exploring right now!
Our Top Picks:
Having personally tested many different backpacks, I have listed the most worth buying versions based on price, durability, capacity, size, and more. Let’s see which one is right for you.
1. Simple Modern Kids Backpack – Best for overall
Important Specifications
- Size: 15.25 x 12.5 x 5.25 inches
- Material: Polyester.
- Weight: 0.634 ounces.
Product Highlights
As the name suggests, this backpack is designed specifically for children. The Simple Modern Kids Backpack is sized to suit the needs of primary school students. Its space could be more spacious to hold many textbooks or laptops.
With a size of 7L, elementary students can scientifically organize school supplies. They can even use the backpack to store lunch bags and many other small items.
This backpack also conquers me with great comfort. From its handle to its straps, it’s smooth, comfortable, and fits perfectly with babies.
Durable material is also a plus point on Simple Modern Kids. This polyester backpack is entirely waterproof. I have used this backpack model in light rain and snow conditions and achieved the desired waterproof effect.
Simple Modern is a durable and kid-friendly backpack. However, due to its design for small children, it is not suitable to hold a few large items.
Today’s Best Deals:
- Kids Backpack: Unicorn Fields school backpack great for ages...
- Spacious: Measures 15.25"x12.5"x5.25" with 12L Capacity
- School Ready: Features a padded tablet sleeve, a large...
- Durable: Made from easy-to-clean polyester and built with...
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
What We Like
- Great comfort.
- Durable material.
- Designed for young children.
- The strap can be easy to adjust.
Things To Consider
- More space to hold many books.
2. JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack – Best for Waterproof
Important Specifications
- Size: 16.7 x 13 x 8.5 inches
- Material: 100% Polyester.
- Weight: 12 Ounces.
Product Highlights
When choosing backpacks for elementary school students, I always prioritize waterproof options. It is an important feature to help young children better protect their books.
The JanSport SuperBreak One is one backpack model that meets my above criteria quite well. This backpack model uses 600 denier fabric, a material known for its durability and good waterproofing ability.
Its seams are also quite solid. When combined with the inner coating, the JanSport SuperBreak One is the ultimate in abrasion and water resistance.
In addition to outstanding durability, this backpack model also possesses many convenient functions.
Specifically, it has a main compartment large enough to hold books, and notes, a simple shape, super lightweight, shoulder strap, and cushion.
JanSport’s only shortcoming compared to some of its competitors is the lack of side pockets for water bottles. Yet, it is still a perfect backpack to consider.
Today’s Best Deals:
- Your Forever Pack: Always be ready with the JanSport...
- Ready for Anything: These backpacks are made with durable...
- Hold All Your Essentials: Not too big and not too small,...
- Express Yourself: Featuring a simple, classic silhouette...
- Comfort and Convenience: Made to be reliable and...
What We Like
- Enduring.
- Waterproof.
- Simple design.
- Lightweight, comfortable.
- Spacious main compartment.
Things To Consider
- Missing side pocket for a water bottle.
3. Adidas Back to School Backpack – Best for Eco-Friendly Design
Important Specifications
- Size: 9 x 14 x 19 inches
- Material: 100% Recycled Polyester.
- Weight: 14.9 ounces.
Product Highlights
Recycled materials are the most prominent advantage of the Adidas Back to School BTS Creator Backpack. It is a highly appreciated creation from Adidas and has conquered many environmentally conscious users and me.
This recyclable material is also relatively easy to clean. With only soap and water, I was immediately able to treat the stain on my child’s backpack in a short time.
In addition to the materials, I must also commend the design. Adidas backpack owns up to 3 external zippered pockets and 2 water pockets. This design helps elementary students to organize their scientific learning materials easily.
This model is also sturdy and durable. However, its primary compartment size is a bit smaller than I expected. To a relatively limited extent, it is only suitable for elementary school students who can bring only a few books to school.
Today’s Best Deals:
- This product is made with recycled content as part of our...
- Lifetime warranty.
- Wipe-able material for easy spot cleaning with soap and...
- 3 exterior zippered pockets for organization.
- 2 exterior water bottle pockets.
What We Like
- Durable.
- Easy to clean.
- Multiple side pockets
- Environmentally friendly recycled materials.
- Fashion design for elementary school students
Things To Consider
- Limited primary compartment size.
4. High Sierra Loop-Backpack – Best for Storage
Important Specifications
- Size: 14.57 x 20.08 x 7.09 inches
- Material: Denier Polyester.
- Weight: 1.41 pounds.
Product Highlights
Primary school students usually can bring only a few books and school supplies to school. Therefore, most object-oriented backpacks typically have a neat design with minimal storage.
High Sierra Loop-Backpack goes against the above general design style. It has spacious main compartments, including a dedicated compartment for a tablet. With this design, elementary students can keep all their documents and school supplies orderly.
This backpack model comes with a suspension system, helping elementary students not get tired of carrying a backpack with too many books and supplies. In addition, it also comes with an S-shaped mesh padded shoulder strap that is comfortable to use.
High Sierra is an option worth considering due to its impressive storage space and comfortable feel. Its most prominent downside is the limited zipper range. I needed help accessing the contents of the first compartment.
Today’s Best Deals:
- Dimensions: 19 x 13.5 x 8.5-inch
- Main compartment + secondary pockets with tablet sleeve /...
- The Suspension System provides relief when carrying heavier...
- A dedicated sleeve for your tablet.
- Compression straps are designed to cinch down and secure...
What We Like
- High-quality materials.
- Spacious main compartment.
- Comfortable padded shoulder strap.
- There is a dedicated compartment for tablets.
- The suspension system reduces pressure.
Things To Consider
- Limited zipper range.
5. PUMA Kids’ Meridian Backpack – Best for Durability
Important Specifications
- Size: 12 x 14 x 4 inches
- Material: 100% Polyester.
- Weight: 5 pounds
Product Highlights
I had the opportunity to test PUMA Kids’ Meridian Backpack for quite some time. Up to now, this is still one of the most durable backpacks I have ever used.
Its primary material is still polyester, like many of its competitors. However, Puma has its treatment to provide a sturdy, durable product that can be available for many years.
This backpack model also possesses quite a few utilities that an elementary school student will need. It supports multiple side pockets, a padded compartment for tablets, and a side mesh pocket for water bottle storage.
My only complaint about this backpack is that the inner lining is pink. This color has no uniformity with the exterior design.
Today’s Best Deals:
- Side mesh pockets
- Internal laptop sleeve
- Internal organizer
- Mini rip stop
- Airmesh
What We Like
- Enduring.
- Easy to clean.
- Many extra compartments.
- Convenient side meshes pocket.
- Padded pad for secure tablet storage.
Things To Consider
- The lining lacks aesthetics.
6. PUMA KIDS’ LOGO BACKPACK – Best for Style
Important Specifications
- Size: 16.89 x 12.52 x 2.99 inches
- Material: Denier Polyester.
- Weight: 13.4 ounces.
Product Highlights
Puma Kids’ Logo Backpack has a simple yet stylish design. Boys will often have a particular interest in this beautiful colorful backpack.
This backpack model is also very suitable for elementary school students due to its lightweight. It also includes several extra pockets, enough for students to store school supplies.
However, this backpack model will need more space to store many file covers. I have tried to fit 4 briefcases into my backpack, but this is impossible.
This weakness is a significant shortcoming, as most 5th graders have to bring a lot of books to school.
Today’s Best Deals:
- pockets: 5 slip, 4 exterior
What We Like
- Enduring.
- Simple design.
- Lovely style
- Lightweight.
- Include an extra pocket
Things To Consider
- Not suitable for carrying a lot of books to school.
7. FORTNITE Multiplier Backpack – Best for Summer Camp
Important Specifications
- Size: 17 x 8 x 10 inches
- Material: 100% Polyester.
- Weight: 1.9 pounds
Product Highlights
In addition to going to school, elementary students also participate in many other outdoor activities, such as picnics and summer camps. At this point, a convenient backpack like the Fortnite Multiplier will be an intelligent choice.
This backpack is made of durable polyester material, which is water-resistant. It can accompany elementary school students in picnics and outdoor camping.
The design style with many side pockets is also a remarkable advantage of this bag model. In addition to storing books, as usual, the backpack can hold many items for camping trips and outdoor picnics.
My only dissatisfaction is that the side pockets are too big. When participating in vigorous activities, my water bottle often falls out unexpectedly.
Today’s Best Deals:
- Large main compartment and interior branded lining
- Custom webbing handle and internal laptop sleeve
- One self water bottle pocket with mesh and branded webbing...
- External zip pocket with organizer
- Padded straps, back, and bottom panels
What We Like
- Enduring.
- It can store many items.
- Many extra compartments.
- Perfect waterproof material.
- Suitable for many activities.
Things To Consider
- Large side pocket.
8. Everest Basic Backpack – Best for Comfort
Important Specifications
- Size: 11 x 5 x 15 inches
- Material: Denier Polyester.
- Weight: 11.2 ounces.
Product Highlights
Everest Basic Backpack has a relatively simple design. It includes a spacious main compartment and a zippered front pocket for the most used school supplies.
The simple design makes this backpack model able to accompany elementary students in all activities. It can be available to store books at school or clothes to take on a day trip.
Another advantage worth considering is its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. It passed my tests for resistance to mold and moisture, which is relatively suitable for everyday use.
Everest Basic is a reasonably affordable backpack model suitable for young children. Yet, its small size will only be suitable for short road trips.
Today’s Best Deals:
What We Like
- Simple design.
- Available daily.
- Easy-access front pocket.
- Resistant to mildew and moisture.
- Suitable for carrying on picnics.
Things To Consider
- Small size.
9. Adidas Young Creator Backpack – Best for Comfort
Important Specifications
- Size: 9 x 14 x 19 inches
- Material: Polyester.
- Weight: 14.7 ounces.
Product Highlights
Comfort is the first feeling I get with Adidas Young Creator. Its shoulder straps have thick padding just below. So, even when I wear the backpack for a long time, I don’t feel discomfort or pain.
This backpack model can also help your child store elementary school stuff. It includes a main compartment, up to 3 external zippered pockets, and 2 water bottle pockets.
Although satisfied with its design and convenience advantages, I am skeptical about its durability. The Adidas Young Creator seems a little more flimsy than the competition, even though a lifetime warranty backs it.
Today’s Best Deals:
- Lifetime Warranty
- 3 exterior zippered pockets for organization
- 2 exterior water bottle pockets
- Padded shoulder straps for comfort
What We Like
- Feeling comfortable.
- Simple, modern design.
- 2 pockets for handy water bottles.
- Many functional extra pockets.
- The shoulder pad is thick and comfortable.
Things To Consider
- More fragile than some options on the market.
10. Champion Manuscript Backpack – Best for Boys
Important Specifications
- Size: 5 x 5 x 0.7 inches
- Material: Polyester.
- Weight: 1.04 pounds.
Product Highlights
Boys will be attracted to Champion Manuscript at first sight. This backpack has a simple design and personality. The sporty style makes it the perfect choice to take to school, the gym, and the stadium.
Not only does it score with an attractive design style, but this backpack model also conquers users with many other valuable features.
The ones that stand out the most are the large design to hold the laptop, the comfortable padded straps and back, and the versatile front zip pocket.
My only complaint is that its water bottle holder is relatively shallow, which makes me worry the water bottle could fall off at any moment.
Today’s Best Deals:
- Front zip pocket
- Internal organizer
- Side water bottle pocket
- Slip laptop sleeve
- Padded strap and back
What We Like
- Stylish and sporty.
- Can hold a laptop
- Front zip pocket
- Comfortable padded strap.
- Available both for school and playing sports.
Things To Consider
- The water bottle holder is just a little deep.
Buying Guide
I have compiled some experience when looking for backpacks for elementary school students. If you’re also interested in the issue, do not ignore my tips.
Size
Ensure elementary school students’ backpacks are of the right size and capacity to hold all the books and items they need to bring to school.
Meanwhile, the backpack’s weight needs to be as light as possible so as not to put pressure on young children.
Material
Elementary school students will use backpacks every day. Therefore, a pack made from durable, comfortable materials will always be the best choice.
When choosing a material, it’s better to grip it directly. Make sure the backpack you choose is soft and comfortable to hold.
Design
A stylish backpack will catch the attention of any elementary school student. However, depending on the environment and the purpose of use, you have to find different styles of backpacks.
Price
The best backpack for elementary school students must be comfortable and durable for a long time. Because of these criteria, investing in an expensive bag with outstanding quality is a wise choice.
FAQs
What size backpack does an 8-year-old need?
Backpacks for 8-year-olds should have a capacity of less than 10-15% of body weight. For example, if a child weighs 50 lbs, the suitable backpack model should weigh only 5-8 lbs.
Which backpack is the best for school?
The best backpacks for school should have a simple design and large capacity. These backpack models should include extra compartments to hold school supplies and personal accessories.
What is the most excellent backpack for kids?
The most stylish backpacks for kids include The North Face ‘Jester’ Backpack, Fjällräven Kånken Backpack, and JanSport Big Student Backpack.
What’s the most popular school bag?
Some of the most popular models might be The North Face Jester Daypack and Dagne Dover Small Neoprene Backpack.
Conclusion
I have checked and tested many elementary school backpacks. However, I always fall in love with the Simple Modern Kids Backpack, a perfect choice.
You can also choose the JanSport SuperBreak One if you need waterproofing, or consider another option on my list, depending on your needs.
Whatever your requirements, the 10 backpacks above can confidently make you satisfied. Thank you for your interest in the article!