Best 12 College Backpacks – Guaranteed Trusted & Tested Reviews
College backpacks are a must-have for all of those students who are in the flow of their academic and profession life. From your daily commute to class, navigating the library and hanging out for hours on campus, getting the best college backpack can really improve your experience. College backpacks do so much more than carry books around, they also help you stay organized and comfortable living that double-jointed lifestyle!
For such students, look no further than college backpacks. College backpacks need to be sturdy enough to endure the daily grind of campus life, be able to carry laptops, notebooks and other necessities and comfortable enough to wear them on for long. Padded shoulder straps, water bottle holders and compartments — the more, the better; ensure your college backpack includes these must-have features too! You might be interested our 10 Best-Selling The North Face Backpacks
Different students need their type of college backpacks. Others want the most basic of looks, like a slim silhouette for major internship potential, or perhaps one with all the pockets they need to carry books and gym clothes. Additionally, other college backpacks come with a few extras; like your USB charging points or those clever anti-theft compartments that cater for the demands of students today. You can check out our Top 8 Best Travel Backpacks of The Year 2024
So, in reality, college backpacks are kind of like their owners. A backpack that suits their individual needs — everything from toting around academic supplies and powering through study sessions to socializing with classmates during daily activities. No matter if you are a freshman, senior or already preparing for graduation — one of the ultimate tricks to become an even better student is to invest in a good backpack college.
List of best 12 College Backpacks
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THE NORTH FACE Jester Backpack
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Fjällräven 13″ Kanken Backpack
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Herschel Little America Backpack
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Osprey Arcane Large Day Backpack
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Topo Designs Daypack Classic backpack
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Lululemon Everyday Backpack
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Fjallraven Vardag 25 Acorn backpack
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THE NORTH FACE Borealis Commuter Backpack
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Vera Bradley Womens Cotton Campus Backpack
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Osprey Flare Backpack
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Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus Backpack
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Carhartt 27L Single-Compartment Backpack
THE NORTH FACE Jester Backpack
Best choice for Women
| Product Dimensions | 10.63 x 8.27 x 10.98 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.63 pounds |
| Department | unisex-adult |
Customer Reviews 4.8 out of 5.0
Pros
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The FlexVent suspension system for maximum support and ventilation you all day comfort
- The Multiple Pocket can Hold Your Laptop, Clothes, Books, Mobile Phone and More,
- Constructed with high-quality polyester, the Jester is durable and designed to handle every day wear and tear.
- The backpack is sleek and stylish, available in a variety of colors.
Cons
- The zippers may open a bit too easily, and the water bottle pockets could be improved for better functionality.
- Some people may miss the non-existent hip or sternum straps if they carry a lot of weight.
The North Face Womens Jester Everyday college Laptop Backpack is a practical and attractive wide mouth backpack made to meet the needs of those looking for an ideal functional and good-looking pack they may use on daily basis. With a contemporary twist, this backpack is perfect for students, working professionals and city commuters.
Fjällräven 13″ Kanken Backpack
Top Rated
| Product Dimensions | 9.84 x 13.78 x 6.3 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 12.1 ounces |
| Department | mens |
Customer Reviews 4.9 out of 5.0
Pros
- The fabric is really tough and water repellent.
- Ideal for daily use: small and lightweight.
- Padded laptop sleeve for safekeeping
Cons
- Not a lot of room for bulky items
- Advanced Features May be Absent in Simple Designs
This 13″ Kanken college Backpack from Fjällräven is a stylish classic suitable for students of all ages and even adults searching for the most compact type. Crafted with a dedicated padded laptop sleeve, the bag has ample room for daily basics and keeps things looking clean. Constructed from the same durable, water-resistant Vinylon F fabric as Kankens in recent seasons, it’s built for everyday wear and tear.
Herschel Little America Backpack
| Product Dimensions | 7 x 11.25 x 19.5 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.5 pounds |
| Department | unisex-adult |
Customer Reviews 4.6 out of 5.0
Pros
- Stylish, iconic design.
- Roomy and with a padded laptop sleeve
- Padded shoulder straps for enduring comfort.
Cons
- Not too many external pockets for more organize.
The Herschel Little America college Backpack is a fashionable laptop backpack perfect for students, commuters, and travelers. The design pulls from the classic mountaineering silhouette, though it comes with updated features like a padded laptop sleeve and split-access main compartment. These bullion from the 1kg silver bar were poured into a backpack that, with padded straps of course, is perfect for daily use in harsh environments.
Osprey Arcane Large Day Backpack
| Product Dimensions | 14 x 20 x 2 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.41 pounds |
| Department | unisex-adult |
Customer Reviews 4.6 out of 5.0
Pros
- Constructed from eco-friendly recycled material
- Durable and fashionable for everyday wear.
- Padded shoulder straps and back panel for comfort.
- Laptop sleeve with another separate main storage
Cons
- Might not accommodate those that are heavy packers or travel with a family.
- Has no external water bottle storage
The Osprey Arcane Large Day Commuter College Backpack in Stonewash Black is a versatile and elegant backpack that you can wear to work every day. Constructed of robust polyester fabric that is sourced from recycled materials while also exhibiting a clean, minimal look A comfy carry is assured by the padded straps and back panel of the backpack. It comes with a padded laptop sleeve, internal organization pockets & quick-access front panel pocket for daily commutes, office use or even casual outings.
Topo Designs Daypack Classic backpack
| Product Dimensions | 5 x 11 x 19 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 5 pounds |
| Department | unisex-adult |
Customer Reviews 4.3 out of 5.0
Pros
- Recycled nylon
- Two laptop sleeves
- Colorway and minimalist styling that stands out
- Padded shoulder straps for a comfy carry
Cons
- 21L may not be enough for serious overpackers.
Topo Designs Daypack Classic 21L Every Day Carry College Backpack — Beetle/Spice It’s made out of strong and recycled nylon. Offered in a two-pack with dual reinforced laptop sleeves for convenient, protective, and everyday commuting or travel use. Its streamlined functionality enables highly organized use of space, making it the perfect solution for those with a minimalistic interior style.
Lululemon Everyday Backpack
| Product Dimensions | 5.91 x 11.42 x 16.54 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.4 pounds |
| Department | unisex-adult |
Customer Reviews 4.5 out of 5.0
Pros
- Weather-resistant fabric
- Fits most laptops under 15″ in a padded sleeve.
- Slim and handy to be used daily
- Plenty of pockets and compartments to keep you organized
Cons
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Not able to carry big loads.
Lululemon Every Day Backpack 2.0 23L The Lululemon Everyday College Backpack 2.0 is a high quality, stylish bag designed to be your everyday go to for when you are on the move – whether that’s commuting, working out or heading to class. It includes a main compartment which has a padded sleeve for 15 inch laptop and two other compartments. Its clean design makes it an ideal day bag, but its durable, water-repellent fabric will keep all your stuff safe from the elements.Exceptions include covered electronics slots that make it easy to access your phone or computer without groping around, and an exterior zip pocket where you can stash your passport for quick access at airport checkpoints.
Fjallraven Vardag 25 Acorn backpack
| Product Dimensions | 8.27 x 12.2 x 17.72 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.06 pounds |
| Department | unisex-adult |
Customer Reviews 4.8 out of 5.0
Pros
- The Fjallraven Vardag 25 backpack has been updated with modern features and styling.
- Everyday backpack with space for a laptop.
- G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco S fabric with recycled nylon lining.
- Spacious main compartment with dual-zip closure.
- Padded laptop sleeve.
Cons
- No External Water Bottle Pocket
The Fjällräven Vardag 25 Acorn is a versatile and all-around daypack. Constructed out of durable, water-resistant G-1000 Heavy Duty Eco S material. This college backpack has a large 25L capacity allowing you to keep all your daily essentials and it also comes with dedicated padded sleeve that can fit up to 15-inch laptop. The straightforward style looks good at the office, on campus or during weekend getaways.
THE NORTH FACE Borealis Commuter Backpack
| Product Dimensions | 6.5 x 12 x 19.5 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1 pounds |
| Department | unisex-adult |
Customer Reviews 4.7 out of 5.0
Pros
- Compatible with the FlexVent suspension system.
- Offers padded compartment for a laptop which provides all around protection.
- Durable and versatile design.
Cons
- Bulkier items require stricter spacing.
Commuters and students often pick The North Face Borealis College Backpack. Its compartment provides a special port for laptop, accessory pockets, and the breathable FlexVent suspension. Its heavy duty material and minimalist design make it a very simple but exclusive option for taking along daily pieces. It is designed to be slim and lightweight, making it versatile from a work or school bag or for outdoor activities.
Vera Bradley Womens Cotton Campus Backpack
| Product Dimensions | 12 x 7.5 x 16.5 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.74 pounds |
| Department | womens |
Customer Reviews 4.6 out of 5.0
Pros
- This backpack has a large main compartment, laptop sleeve, and multiple pockets for organization.
- The backpack is constructed of long-lasting cotton canvas.
- Adjustable Straps & Padded Back Panel — Comfortably Carry The Backpack
- The Vera Bradley Women’s Cotton Campus Backpack is excellent or school, work, travel.
Cons
- The backpack can be quite heavy once it has been fully loaded.
Vera Bradley Women’s Cotton Campus College Backpack, Stylish and Multipurpose, Signature Cotton It includes a large main compartment, a laptop sleeve, and an assortment of pockets to keep your things in check. Solidly-built from cotton canvas, make sure to choose a bright bold color or print.
Osprey Flare Backpack
| Item Dimensions | 18.9 x 12.99 x 9.45 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.7 Pounds |
| Suggested Users | unisex-adult |
|---|
Customer Reviews 4.8 out of 5.0
Pros
- For a prolonged period of usage, the Flare is designed to be lightweight enough that you can forget about it.
- The backpack has a large main compartment that can fit all your essentials like a laptop, books and more.
- Constructed with quality materials made to last a lifetime.
- The Flare is designed with a minimalist aesthetic
Cons
- No sternum strap and waist belt found compared to other Osprey daypacks
Osprey Flare College Backpack – Best for Everyday Travel and Commuting Osprey has created a very versatile and comfortable option with the Osprey Flare laptop backpack which is excellent everyday carry that adds a bit of wanderlust to your daily commute. With its lightweight build, roomy main compartment and multiple pockets, it can serve you as a workhorse in many activities. Designed to be as simple and user-friendly as possible, it is particularly suitable for school-bound students, or occasional tourists.
Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus Backpack
| Product Dimensions | 12.6 x 7.87 x 19.29 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 2.09 pounds |
| Department | unisex-adult |
Customer Reviews 4.2 out of5.0
Pros
- Separate tech section for your laptop and tech accessories
- Internal organization includes a 16” laptop sleeve
- Quick-access front pocket
- Contoured padded shoulder straps, adjustable sternum strap ergonomic back panels, for all-day comfort
- Made from water-resistant, recycled woven fabric
Cons
- Small quick-access pockets
- May be an impractical option for carrying huge stuff.
The Bellroy Classic College Backpack Plus (24L) in Bronze is a high-quality, sleek backpack that was made for every day carry; great for professionals or college/school students. It’s made from a durable woven fabric that can keep moisture out — the city and modern minimalist design satisfies your needs for carrying books, gadgets and all sorts of daily accessories.
Carhartt 27L Single-Compartment Backpack
Our Choice
| Product Dimensions | 9.5 x 12 x 18 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1 pounds |
| Department | unisex-adult |
Customer Reviews 4.8 out of 5.0
Pros
- Constructed with strong 1200D polyester and Rain Defender® to withstand the harshest conditions.
- 27 Litre volume with a large main compartment can fit all your gear.
- Features a padded laptop sleeve for up to 15″ devices.
- Contoured adjustable shoulder straps with quick-release buckle and padded back panel make for a comfortable carry.
- 2 exterior zippered pockets for small items.
Cons
- There is no external pocket for keeping a water bottle.
The Carhartt 27L Single Compartment College Backpack is durable, spacious and engineered for everyday wear, outdoor expeditions and working environments. Crafted from rugged polyester with Rain Defender® durable water repellent, this college backpack is sure to make it through harsh conditions and keep your treasures dry. With a 27-liter main compartment, it fits daily essential duties, books or some utensils. And inside, it features a padded laptop sleeve for up to 15-inch devices to keep your tech safe
